Match Report & Pics
Pre-Season Friendlies
Ashfield`s Pre-Season Friendies have been announced and are:-
Sat 21/7/18:- Ashfield 2 Greenock Juniors 1 - KO 2pm (Peugeot Stadium) - Scorers:- Giblin and Hearton. Match Report below
Wed 25/7/18:- Irvine Meadow 4 Ashfield 1 KO 7.15pm (Meadow Park, Irvine) - Scorer:- Parker (Pen)
MATCH REPORTS - 2018/2019
McBookie.Com West Region League 2
Ashfield will be competing with:-
Carluke Rovers, Lanark United, Newmains United, Forth Wanderers, Lesmahagow, Thorniewood United, Muirkirk, Saltcoats Victoria, Ardeer Thistle, Annbank United, Vale of Leven, Johnstone Burgh, St Anthony`s and Vale of Clyde for the Central League Division 2 Title next Season.
Sectional League Cup
The new format of the Sectional League Cup has been announced and Ashfield have been placed in a Group of 4 alongside Petershill, Kirkintilloch Rob Roy and St Roch`s. Matches commence on Saturday 28th July 2018.
Sat 28/7/2018:- Ashfield 1 Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 5
Mon 30/7/2018:- Ashfield 2 St Roch`s 2 (St Roch`s won 4-3 on Pens)
Wed 1/8/2018:- Petershill 3 Ashfield 0
Scottish Junior Cup
It is a long time since the `field lifted this famous trophy and have to go back to the 1909-10 Season for last success. The `field reached the Semi Finals in 1970 and 1975 losing to Penicuik Athletic & Glenrothes with both games being played at the old Brockville Stadium, Falkirk. Last Season the `field fell at the 3rd Round Stage, after a Bye in the 1st Round, and a tremendous 6-1 victory at Aberdeen Sunnybank, Ashfield lost 0-3 at Bellshill Athletic. The Last two Seasons previous to that saw the `field not having much luck with the draw and succumbed to Kelty Hearts (a) and Kilwinning Rangers (a) respectively.
Pre-Season Friendly:- Ashfield 2 Greenock 1
Saturday 21st July 2018:- (Scorers - Michael Giblin and Graeme Hearton)
A very competitive Pre-Season friendly was played out on a hard pitch at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium and both sides can be pleased with the work-out. This was the `field`s first outing of the Season with a number of changes to the line up. The first half hour was pretty frantic with neither team making many clear cut chances however it was the home side that had the bulk of the possession. On the half hour mark, the `field broke the deadlock after pressurising the home defence into losing possession with the ball played across the box for the returning Michael Giblin to drive low and hard into the net. Ashfield 1 Greenock 0. Ashfield`s new signing, Graeme Hearton was `catching the eye`linking up well with the Ashfield Midfield and fellow striker Keigan Parker as the home side finished the first half on top.
HT:- ASHFIELD 1 GREENOCK 0
The 2nd half was a different affair with the visitors making a number of changes and started to dominate proeedings for a good 20 minute spell scoring an excellent goal on the break to level. Ashfield 1 Greenock 1. The `field made a couple of changes to freshen up proceedings with Gavin Goodall returning after a couple of seasons away and he made an immediate impact. Michael Giblin won the ball in his own half before releasing Goodall who played an inch perfect pass between the Greenock back four to an onrushing Graeme Hearton, who steadied himself before lashing the ball past the onrushing Keeper. This was certainly the highlight of the Match and ensured the `field started the Season off with a win.
FT:- ASHFIELD 2 GREENOCK 1
Sectional League Cup:- Ashfield 1 Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 5
Saturday 28th July 2018 (Scorer:- Mark MacManus)
After Pre-Season Friendlies against Greenock and Irvine Meadow it was down to competitve business at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium yesterday with the two `Maxi`s locking horns as Ashfield welcomed Rob Roy for the first time in 6 Seasons. It was a case for the home side that the game was over before it really started after a whirlwind start from Rob Roy saw Ashfield 4-0 down after half hour and staring at a very heavy defeat. In between conceding the goals the field had Jordan Lynch in the Ashfield defence having to go off injured and John Gaynor hitting the bar during a frantic start however a combination of terrific play from the visitors and bad defending showed Ashfield what it was like to play a SuperLeague Premier side and how clinical they can be. To be fair to the `field they rolled up their sleeves and finished the half strongly with a header from Mark McManus reducing the deficit and Alan Cairns being denied by the legs of the Rob Roy Keeper. HT:- Ashfield 1 Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 4
The second half was less frantic and when Rob Roy scored their fifth the home side had to work hard defensively and offensively to ensure no further damage and were unlucky on a number of times not to claw back some of the deficit being denied by the Rob Roy Keeper. FT:- Ashfield 1 Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 5
The `field must dust themselves down and prepare for the visit of St Roch`s on Monday before heading up the road to Petershill on Wednesday.......`mon the `field !!
Sectional League Cup Matches:-
Ashfield 2 St Rochs`s 2 (St Roch`s won 4-3 on Penalties)
Petershill 3 Ashfield 0
Monday 30th July 2018:- (Scorers:- Goodall and Stevenson)
Ashfield and St Roch`s served up an excellent 90 minutes on Monday night to a large crowd with St Roch`s getting the extra bonus point courtesy of a penalty shoot out win by 4-3. Ashfield held a minute`s silence for the late Jim Ross who served Ashfield so well as Club Treasurer for over 60 years. Both teams started the game on the front foot and it was the visitors who looked the more threatening, buoyed by their 3-1 victory at Petershill on Saturday. Both teams had made a number of changes as they prepare for the League campaign however it was the home side that made the breakthrough in the 20th minute with a well taken goal from Gavin Goodall. Ashfield stepped up a gear after that and Parker came close to increasing Ashfield`s lead as the `field went in 1-0 up at the interval. HT Ashfield 1 St Roch`s 0. The visitors backed by a large support pulled the game level with a 25 yard drive which cannoned off the underside of the bar and over the line however St Roch`s did not have much time to enjoy being level as the `field went ahead shortly after following a corner which was headed across goal finding Billy Stevenson who turned the ball into the net. The game ebbed and flowed after that and Gary McLenaghan pulled off a tremendous save to keep the `field ahead however with 7 minutes left on the clock he could do nothing to prevent a 20 yard free-kick hitting the top corner of the net. Both teams had chances before Referee brought proceedings to a close and onto penalties. It was the `Candy Rock`that secured the bonus point after Hadden and Parker missed for Ashfield. FT Ashfield 2 St Roch`s 2 (St Roch`s won 4-3 on Penalties).
Wednesday 1st August 2018:-
Ashfield made the short distance up the road to take on SuperLeague Premier Division outfit Petershill in a night which was more akin to a night in November than early August. It had been a while since the `field had met Petershill in a competitive match here and it was a Paul Maxwell inspired performance that day in 2013 that secured a 3-2 victory in the `top league`. The `field`s priority this Season is the League and they made a number of changes due to injuries to the starting line up however the `makeshift` team did more than hold their own in the first half with chances following to Parker and Friel. John Mullen in the Ashfield goal was kept busy blocking a number of angular shots as Petershill utilised the flanks well. Just as Ashfield were thinking about their half time cup of Tea, the home side broke the deadlock following an inswinging corner in the 43rd minute.
HT Petershill 1 Ashfield 0. The second half was a bit flat and disappointing from the visitors with the `peasy` stepping up a gear to ensure they won the Sectional League Cup group. Further goals in the 52nd and 77th Minute made it a comfortable second half for the home side however the `field can be happy with the experience of playing higher league opposition as they bid to haul themselves out of the West Region 2nd Division. FT:- Petershill 3 Ashfield 0.
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Carluke Rovers 0 Ashfield 4
Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 1
Saturday 4th August 2018:- (Scorers:- Friel, Hearton, Parker and Lynch)
What an excellent week for the Ashfield Team which started with a tough opening encounter at the John Cumming Stadium on Saturday 4th August in the sunshine against a very spirited and determined Carluke Rovers. The opening exchanges were played at great pace with neither team giving an inch and after the home side put the `field under some initial pressure from set pieces, it was the visitors that began to assert themselves with some terrific balls played in from the flanks coupled with the industry of Friel and Giblin in the Midfield area. On the half hour mark Michael Giblin hit the outside of the post from 22 yards directly from a free-kick and following that an inch perfect cross was played to the far post which was met by Hearton however on this occasion he was thwarted by the Rovers Keeper however the `field did not have to wait long to get ahead. Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel was played through and although his effort took out the Goalkeeper, it deflected off the Carluke No 2 and into the corner of the net to the delight of the travelling supporters. 8 Minutes later and Keigan Parker worked his magic down the right hand side before delivering an inch perfect cross to Hearton who this time bulleted his header past the despairing reach of the Carluke Keeper. A really well worked goal.
HT:- Carluke Rovers 0 Ashfield 2. The second half opened brightly with the home side trying to work up a head of steam however the `field continually broke down their moves and broke with pace and it came as no surprise when Man of the Match Keigan Parker picked the ball up 25 yards out and after evading a couple of defenders drove the ball low and hard into the back of the net. This effectively finished the home side`s resistance ,who hadn`t played that badly, but were up against a very clinical Ashfield team and this was reinforced with 6 minutes left on the clock. A lovely sweeping move saw the ball played across the box and after being dummied it fell nicely for an onrushing Jordan Lynch who lashed the ball into the roof of the net and ensure the `field would top the League on the opening day of the Season. A really promising start to the Season for the `field.
FT:- Carluke Rovers 0 Ashfield 4
Wednesday 8th August 2018:- (Scorers:- Hearton (2) )
Ashfield welcomed our friends from Govan to a sunny Peugeot Ashfield Stadium last night and despite the travel problems caused by the European Championships the game managed to go ahead and the home side will have been delighted it did as they finished off an excellent 5 days by securing a rare home win against St Anthony`s. The `field were still `smarting` from the loss of a late goal the last time the two teams met and after 13 minutes found themselves a goal down courtesy of a goal from Ball. The `field did not let this affect them and were driven forward by Club Captain Ciaran Friel and within 11 minutes the `field were level as Hearton scored. HT:- Ashfield 1 St Anthony`s 1. Both teams put in a terrific effort in the 2nd half however despite chances, the one that was taken was again from Graeme Hearton who finished off a lovely move involving Keigan Parker. The `field held on despite the lengthy injury time and find themselves two points clear at the top as they prepare for a trip to in-form Lanark United. FT:- Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 1.
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Lanark United 1 Ashfield 2
Ashfield 4 Ardeer Thistle 2
Saturday 11th August 2018:- (Scorers:- Hearton and Goodall)
It was another sunny day in Lanarkshire as both teams served up a cracker of a Match with the game swinging from end to end. This fixture is always a close affair and this encounter was no different right up until the 5th minute of injury time. It was the home side that produced the goods in the first 25 minutes playing some terrific pacy Football in which Ashfield did well to hold on and perhaps we could say that this won the game for the visitors by not conceding during the `yowes` early onslaught. The `field were sporting their away strip of Yellow and Black however as the game started they struggled to stem the flow of pressure coming from the home side who were playing with two wingers and offensive runners from Midfield and on the 4th Minute, Ian Watt was played through and despite a valliant effort from Centre Back Gordon Passmore contact was made and the Referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. The prolific Ex-Carluke Centre Ian Watt drilled the ball low and hard however the ball was pushed out by the Ashfield Keeper who managed a further save to deny on rebound.
A let-off for the `field and great double save by John Mullen, who thwarted Lanark minutes later blocking a net bound effort with his legs. A number of corners were well defended by the `field as the Ashfield Management Team made a number of tactical changes and as the half wore on the `field managed to get into their stride. The home side were given a warning on 25 minutes when a lovely move saw young Graeme Hearton played through by Keigan Parker however his driven shot was well blocked by the Lanark Keeper however 4 minutes later and the home side were picking the ball out of the net after a wonderfully worked goal from Ashfield. Again Keigan Parker was instrumental with a lovely ball to the far post which was met by the head of Ciaran Friel and the Ashfield Captain headed back across goal finding Graeme Hearton who drove the ball in for his 4th goal of the Season. Lanark Utd 0 Ashfield 1. This was a blow for the home side as they set up trying to draw level and within 5 minutes they had after a tremendous effort from Kerr who with his back to goal at te edge of the box swilled and drove the ball into the top corner of the net despite a great effort from the Ashfield Keeper. Lanark Utd 1 Ashfield 1. The game began to open out after that and both teams went in at the interval all square. HT:- Lanark Utd 1 Ashfield 1.
The second half was a different `kettle of fish` as the visitors put in a tremendous 45 minutes and eventually secured the victory 12 minutes from time. Before that the game was played at a great pace and the young Ashfield substiutes of Leverage, McLaughlin and Goodall made a great impact to the game and it was from this source that the winner came from as the ball was played down to Dean Leverage and as the young midfielder controlled the ball, he then delivered an inch perfect cross to the onrushing Gavin Goodall who got ahead of the Lanark back four and guided the ball into the corner of the net to the delight of the players, management and travelling fans. Lanark Utd 1 Ashfield 2. Both teams had plenty of pressure in the final minutes with the `field being denied a free-Kick when the Lanark Keeper picked up the ball outside his box before Referee brought proceedings to a close. A tremendous victory for Ashfield against a very good Lanark side and both teams on this display will be at the top end of the table if they keep this form up. FT:- Lanark Utd 1 Ashfield 2.
Saturday 18th August 2018:- (Scorers:- Parker, Stevenson (x 2) & Hadden}
Ashfield welcomed Ardeer Thistle to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium for the first time in 6 years and were determined to continue their 100% record in the West Region Division 2. Paul Maxwell made a couple of changes to the side that won at Lanark United bringing in young Ryan McLaughlin and John Gaynor was back in defence after missing out last week. Both teams cancelled each other out in the opening exchanges with the `field having the bulk of the possession without carving out too much in the way of clear cut opportunities. The Ardeer back four were coping well with cross balls, corners and long throw-ins and as the home side started to get frustrated it was the men from Ayrshire that started to carve out opportunities themselves with a couple of efforts from outside the box however in the 25th minute ex-Ashfield Centre Kwaku Nyame picked up the ball following a poor clearance and cut in from the left evading a couple of tackles before drilling the ball low and hard into the far corner of the net to put the visitors ahead. Ashfield 0 Ardeer Thistle 1. The `field responded with a number of corners and the Thistle Keeper was kept busy for a period however it was the home side that suffered a further blow following a short passback. Ashfield Keeper John Mullen managed to get ahead of the advancing Thistle forward however was `cleaned out` and following a long period of treatment was unable to continue and was carried into the Dressing Room for assistance. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close, the `field knew they were in a game and would have to up the tempo in the second half. HT:- Ashfield 0 Ardeer Thistle 1.
Just as the crowd were settling back into their position for the second half, Ashfield were back level courtesy of an excellent finish from Keigan Parker. Ashfield 1 Ardeer Thistle 1. This was the start Ashfield wanted and dominated for the next 10 minutes keeping the Thistle Keeper busy however as the half wore on the hard working Ardeer Team broke in numbers when any opportunity arose and on the hour mark got their reward following a break away with the ball eventually being played into Nyame from the right hand side and despite Gary McLenaghan in the Ashfield goal narrowing angles the Thistle forward swept a shot into the corner of the net to the delight of the travelling fans. Ashfield 1 Ardeer Thistle 2. This goal gave the home side a jolt and for the next 20 minutes upped their tempo starting with an excellent equaliser in the 66th minute. Ciaran Friel picked up a loose ball midway inside the visitors half and drove at the back four before playing a lovely pass to Billy Stevenson on the right and the Ashfield forward drove a right foot shot in the far corner of the net to the relief of the home support. Ashfield 2 Ardeer Thistle 2. Ashfield were now on form and Keigan Parker and Billy Stevenson were making an impact in the game going close on a couple of occasions however the `field were in dreamland shortly after when Billy Stevenson was played through. The Ashfield striker still had a lot to do and with the Thistle Keeper advancing guided the ball into the corner of the net from 22 yards out to put the `field ahead for the first time. Ashfield 3 Ardeer Thistle 2. The best was yet to come however with 8 minutes left on the clock. A Keigan Parker cross from the right was headed out by a visiting defender and fell nicely to Ashfield right back Kenny Hadden who from 30 yards volleyed the ball into the top corner of the net to win the game for Ashfield. This was some goal from the Ex-Petershill and Glencairn stalwart. Ashfield 4 Ardeer Thistle 2. The game was still played out competitvely with the visitors pushing forward right up until the Referee brought proceedings to a close. A difficult match for Ashfield who got better as the Match progressed and highlighted that every game in this League is extremely tough. The `field welcome Forth Wanderers to Saracen next Saturday in what will be another competitive game........`mon the `field !!
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Ashfield 3 Forth Wanderers 1
Johnstone Burgh 2 Ashfield 2
Saturday 25th August 2018:-
Ashfield welcomed Forth to the Peugeot Stadium for the first time in three Seasons and both sets of fans were looking forward to the encounter between Teams who were sitting at the top of the table and who were top scorers in the division. Both teams were playing in their traditional strips as Referee Blair Comerford started proceedings. Ashfield had made a couple of changes to the Team that started against Ardeer Thistle to combat the free scoring Forth forwards and it was the home side that picked up the pace after an initial `sparring` period. The `field were stretching the Forth back four with Parker and Leverage playing out wide and this gave room for Giblin and Friel to make forays into the box. Parker was first to test the Forth Keeper with an excellent shot which was well blocked and next it was the same player who hit an angular drive just passed the post. On the 18 minute mark it was the home side who broke the deadlock after a ball was cleared on the edge of the box. The Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel picked the ball up from 22 yards out and drove the ball low and hard into the corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Forth Wanderers 0. This gave the home side a lift and were determined to add to this lead however had to wary as the visitors had broke on a couple of occasions and looked extremely dangerous at set pieces also. The `field in their bid to get a 2nd goal found themselves in an offside position on a couple of occasions however in the 35th minute the home side went further ahead following a free-kick fully 25 yards out. Keigan Parker and Michael Giblin both lined up the free-kick however it was the Ex-St Johnstone and Blackpool forward who whipped the ball over the wall and into the top corner of the net giving the Forth Keeper no chance. Ashfield 2 Forth Wanderers 0. Shortly after and Billy Stevenson broke through the visitors offside trap and as the Keeper advanced placed the ball passed him however the ball flew agonisingly wide before the Referee brought proceedings to a halt. HT:- Ashfield 2 Forth Wanderers 0.
There were no changes to the line ups as the game started off at a great pace with the visitors trying to get themselves back into the Match. The game itself was played in good spirit however for some reason the Referee had brandished a whole host of Yellow Cards so many of the players had to be careful. The game was effectively over in the 55th minute following firstly a good save from the Forth Keeper after another free-kick from Parker. From the resultant corner, the Referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. There were no appeals however it appeared that one of the Ashfield players was held back in the box. Ciaran Friel took the penalty sending the Keeper the wrong way to put the `field 3-0 up. Ashfield 3 Forth Wanderers 0. The home side made a couple of changes introducing young striker Gavin Goodall again after his wonderful winner at Lanark two weeks ago and with his first touch of the ball drove the ball goalwards only to see the ball cannon off the base of the post. It was not all one way traffic as Forth pushed men forward at every opportunity and with 20 minutes to go pulled a goal back their overall play deserved. An overhead kick was played to the far post and Kris Jarvie managed to get ahead of the Ashfield defender and guide the ball under the despairing lunge of John Mullen in the Ashfield goal. Ashfield 3 Forth Wanderers 1. There were still plenty of chances had from both teams and Goodall almost increased the home side`s lead with an excellent left foot drive which went narrowly over. Following a break, Keigan Parker was brought down outside of the box by Jordan Grant and unfortunately the Forth defender was given an early bath with a 2nd yellow card. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close, the `field will be delighted with the start to the Season winning 5 out of 5. It`s off to Keanie Park, Johnstone next Saturday to play Johnstone Burgh whilst Forth head to the Ayrshire coast to take on Saltcoats Victoria. FT:- Ashfield 3 Forth Wanderers 1.
Saturday 1st September 2018:-
A lunchtime deluge ensured the playing surface was slick as both teams entered the Pitch playing in their traditional strips. As the expectant crowd settled into their positions both Teams,who were undefeated in the League set about producing a tremendous 90 minutes of offensive Football and showed why they are at the top end of the table with some excellent play. After a first 10 minutes of closing each other down, it was the visitors that began to carve out some openings with Ashfield`s front two looking lively. Keigan Parker was the first to carve out an opening after being played through by Mark McManus and after evading a couple of tackles brought out 2 saves from the Burgh Keeper. Ashfield were getting some joy down the flanks and at the other side Dean Leverage brought out another save from the Burgh Keeper. The home side then showed their attacking prowess after the ball was played into the box and as the ball broke the Burgh Centre delivered a volley off the ground which John Mullen in the Ashfield goal palmed away. After a period of end to end play Ashfield were awarded a free-kick 20 yards out and after the ball was played out to the left hand side some lovely interplay saw the ball break to the Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel who drove forward and despatched a shot which took a deflection en route to the back of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Johnstone Burgh 0 Ashfield 1. Although the home side had played well the lead was deserved on overall play. Next up Referee Clark had to make a decision on whether the ball had crossed the line after a sweeping move from the Burgh saw the ball played past an onrushing Mullen in the Ashfield goal only to see the ball cleared off the line by John Gaynor with the home side appealing that the ball had crossed the line. Ashfield had a series of corners however were well defended by the Burgh back four and just as Ashfield were all set to go into the interval ahead they were pegged back on the stoke of half time following a cross into the box where the ball was only partially cleared. The ball was then volleyed goalwards only to see the Ashfield Keeper pull off a tremendous save however the rebound was picked up by Ryan Officer and the prolific scorer drove the ball in off the post to the roar of the home support. Goal & HT:- Johnstone Burgh 2 Ashfield 2.
It had been a tremendous first half however the question was whether both teams could keep up the same tempo. The home side were obviously buoyed by the late first half goal however chances were at a premium early on in the half. Ashfield were getting joy on the right hand side where Keigan Parker was managing to get some excellent deliveries into the box. It was from this route that the Glasgow side took the lead after some good play down the right by Parker saw an outswinging cross delivered into the box between the Burgh back two and Ashfield`s top scorer this season, Graeme Hearton bulleted a header into the roof of the net to put the `field 2-1 up. Johnstone Burgh 1 Ashfield 2. The home side were shocked by the goal and a couple of minutes later Hearton found himself through on goal with only the Keeper to beat and as the Burgh Keeper advanced the Ashfield striker drove the ball inches past the post. As the home side pushed forward the `field hit them on the break again and this time it was Parker who was through and again as the Burgh Keeper advanced the ball was played over him and for Ashfield the ball went agonisingly past the post. The home side then picked up the pace again in the last 15 minutes and were unfortunate following a series of corners when the Burgh Captain outjumped his markers only to see his effort crash off the underside of the bar. A real let off for the `field however this was only shortlived as a lovely move saw the Ashfield Keeper palm out a netbound effort from Kieron McGuinness and the lively Sam Esplin smashed in the rebound. Johnstone Burgh 2 Ashfield 2. It was game on again and the game swung from end to end with Referee Clark having to earn his Match Fee. As the game entered injury time it looked like Ashfield had won it following a lovely move. The ball broke out to Michael Giblin on the edge of the box and his netbound effort was deflected past the Burgh Keeper to the delight of the Players, Management and travelling supporters however the celebrations were shortlived as Referee Ross Clark, who had a good game, deemed that Substitute Gavin Goodall was in an offside position when deflecting the ball into the net. The Referee brought proceedings to a close and both teams certainly gave their all in this pulsating game of Football. Both teams can be proud of their efforts.
FT:- Johnstone Burgh 2 Ashfield 2.
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Ashfield 2 Thorniewood United 1
Newmains United 2 Ashfield 1
Saturday 8th September 2018:-
Ashfield will look back at this game and learn that sometimes you just have to grind out results when not at your best or that the opponents don`t allow you to play your normal game and yesterday`s Match fell into that category as the `field secured a valuable three points to keep them at the top of the League. Both teams had not met each other for a number of Seasons and it was good to see some familiar faces back at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium.
The home side started the game on the front foot and a lovely move in the 4th minute saw Dean Leverage`s net bound effort blocked by the legs of the `wood keeper after some excellent link up play between Parker and Hearton. The visitors then had a series of corners testing the Ashfield defence and Keeper as the game was played at a fierce pace. Referee McTiernan also became involved in the early stages dishing out some Cards for some over enthusiastic tackling. As the game seemed to get bogged down in Midfield it was the home side who took the lead courtesy of a wonderful effort from Mark McManus. The Ashfield Midfielder picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box before evading a couple of tackles and lashing the ball with his left foot into the top corner of the net. Ashfield 1 Thorniewood Utd 0. A real collectors items for the Ashfield player and this seemed the settle the `field down as shortly after they went further ahead. A curling corner from Keigan Parker was met by an onrushing John Gaynor who managed to get in front of his markers and guided his header into the far corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 2 Thorniewood Utd 0. Ciaran Friel almost increased Ashfield`s lead further from a breakaway however Goalkeeper Duncan blocked his first effort before he drove the ball wide. Thorniewood continued to press before the interval to ensure that this game was not over. HT:- Ashfield 2 Thorniewood Utd 0
James McKenna`s Half time talk certainly worked wonders for the visitors who gave Ashfield a really tough half and ensured a nail biting climax to the Match. It had looked initially that Ashfield would go further ahead as Ashfield`s top scorer Graeme Hearton rounded the advancing `wood Keeper however his angled shot hit the side netting with the goal gaping. A real let off for the visitors who seized this opportunity and did not allow Ashfield much room to play. With 20 minutes left on the clock the visitors managed to pull a goal back following a lobbed shot from the edge of the box by Burns which sailed over John Mullen in the Ashfield goal to ensure it was `game on`. Ashfield 2 Thorniewood Utd 1. Ashfield brought on Billy Stevenson to add a physical presence up front however chances were in short supply for the `field. It was John Mullen that was tested next after the visitors were given a free-kick 22 yards out. The delivery was excellent however the big Ashfield Keeper managed to tip the net bound effort around the post. As Referee McTiernan brought proceedings to a close, the `field knew they had been in a game however they can be delighted with securing the three points despite not being at their best. The `field are back on their travels next week and head to Victoria Park to take on Newmains United.
Saturday 14th September 2018:-
Ashfield succumbed to their first League defeat of the Season and will disappointed with the ways things went yesterday in losing to an injury time header from a corner kick. The Glasgow outfit were confident going into yesterday`s Match on the back of a good victory against Thorniewood United however Victoria Park has not been a particularly happy hunting ground for Ashfield over the years for some reason and last season`s victory emphasised that (4-3). Anyway, it was not raining yesterday as both teams started brightly and the visitors were breaking with pace however it was the final ball that was eluding the `field with Graeme Hearton and Ciaran Friel unable to convert early chances. The home side however were given a massive boost in the 7th minute when the Ashfield Keeper failed to control a backpass allowing the Newmains Centre to open the scoring. Newmains Utd 1 Ashfield 0. A real blow for the big Keeper however what this did was to galvanise the home side who were looking to build up confidence following last week`s visit to Lesmahagow. The game for some reason became a rather bad tempered affair and the Referee had been extremely lenient in his handling of some of his decisions. It took Ashfield until the 31st minute to draw level and it was worth waiting for. The visitors were awarded a free-kick 22 yards out, and Ashfield striker Keigan Parker delivered an inch perfect free-kick into the top corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Newmains Utd 1 Ashfield 1. The next period of the game saw some hefty challenges and unfortunately Hannaway in the Newmains side sustained a severe knee injury which procluded him from moving from the field. The game was held up for 30 minutes before the player was assisted off the park and onto a waiting Ambulance. Everyone at Ashfield would like to wish him a speedy recovery. The rest of the half was played out in a rather subdued manner.
HT:- Newmains Utd 1 Ashfield 1.
The second half was like an old fashioned Cup tie with both teams going hammer and tong at each other. Chances were shared around but were slightly more of a premium than the first half. Ashfield`s closest effort was a Ciaran Friel header with 10 minutes to go when his effort crashed off the inside of the post before being cleared to safety. Newmains themselves had a great opportunity following another mix-up at the back allowing the Newmains Centre to round the Ashfield keeper however his net bound effort was cleared off the line by Patrick Cullen. As the game entered the final few minutes, the home side were awarded a Penalty Kick with the Referee claiming that the Ashfield Keeper had bundled over the Newmains Centre when gathering the ball. Many would say justice was deserved when the Ashfield Keeper produced an excellent save down to his left to deny the home side. Just as both benches were looking at their watches, the home side got one last corner. The ball was whipped into the front post with the Newmains Captain jumping in between a number of Ashfield defenders to bullet a header into the roof of the net to the delight of the home support. Newmains Utd 2 Ashfield 1. The Referee barely had time to centre the ball before blowing for time up. As detailed earlier this was the `field`s first League defeat of the Season however taking the first 8 games played so far they can be extremely happy with their results and performances. Newmains are a completely different proposition having already won at Forth this season and apart from last Saturday, their results have dramatically improved however the `field will be disappointed and will `dust themselves down` for the visit of Vale of Leven to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium next Saturday (22/9/18 - 2pm KO)
FT:- Newmains Utd 2 Ashfield 1
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 1
Saturday 22nd September 2018:- (Scorer:- Stevenson)
Bright sunshine greeted both teams onto the Saracen turf as Ashfield and Vale of Leven set about getting `back on the rails` after last week`s defeats against Newmains and Lesmahagow respectively. Ashfield made two enforced changes and started with Patrick Cullen and top scorer Graeme Hearton in midfield berths with Billy Stevenson back in action partnering Keigan Parker up front. It was the visitors that made the first chance of the match in the opening minutes as McNaught got clear of his marker only to be denied by the legs of John Mullen in the Ashfield goal. Ashfield heeded the warning and played some nice football resulting in a number of corners. Ashfield almost went ahead in the 12th minute when a lovely whipped in corner was met by Ciaran Friel and his glancing header missed the far post by inches. A few minutes later however and the `field went ahead following a sweeping move. Keigan Parker picked the ball up just inside the Vale half and drove towards goal before slipping in an onrushing Graeme Hearton. The ex-Rossvale striker drove the ball low and hard towards goal with the Vale keeper getting something on it which diverted the ball onto the post only to see Billy Stevenson tap the ball home despite the attentions of the Vale defence. Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 0. The `field continued to press and Kenny Hadden`s long throw-ins were causing problems in the visitors back four however on the whole the Vale Keeper did very well. Billy Stevenson and Mark McManus had efforts which went narrowly over the bar as the home side finished the half on a high.
HT:- Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 0.
The home support were clearly hoping that missed chances would not come back to haunt them however this game was a completely different affair in the 2nd with the Alexandria outfit putting on an excellent show which was appreciated by their travelling support. The visitors seemed to re-organise their front line and put the `field back four under pressure firstly in the 55th minute, following a sweeping move the ball broke to a midfielder who drove the ball low and hard past John Mullen only to see the ball cannon back off the post and straight into the arms of the big Ashfield Keeper. A real let off for the `field. Next up was a succession of corners which on the whole were well defended however the last one saw an onrushing Vale player win the header only to see the ball blocked on the line by Paddy Cullen. The `field were restricted to break-aways and they still looked dangerous with Stevenson and Hearton going close however with 12 minutes to go the visitors equalised. A move down the left wing saw the ball cut back into the penalty spot area with Gallagher for the Vale being first to react as he volleyed the cross into the top corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 1. The match then began to become very open as the home side went in search of trying to get a winner. This was helped by the dismissal of a Vale player for a 2nd yellow card with 8 minutes to go. Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel thought that he had won the Match for the `field as he weaved past 4 defenders in the 90th minute only to see his net bound effort blocked by the legs of the Vale Keeper. Referee Craven brought proceedings to a close shortly after and taking the whole game into account, a draw was probably a fair result. Both teams had put in a very good shift and as for the `field they still remain top of the League albeit are now `catchable`with Lanark and Lesmahagow`s game in hand. The `field`s next League game is a mouth watering one at Lesmahagow on the 6th October at Craighead Park however before that the League takes a rest and Ashfield welcome Banchory St Ternan to Saracen next Saturday (29th - 2.30pm KO) in the 2nd Round of the Scottish Junior Cup. (Photos of today`s game on `Match Photos` Section).
FT:- Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 1
Macron Scottish Junior Cup 2nd Round:-
Ashfield 1 Banchory St Ternan 0
Saturday 29th September 2018 (Scorer:- Mark McManus)
Video of Ashfield`s Cup Tie day - https://youtu.be/w0gLUJkVqYY
Ashfield welcomed Banchory St Ternan to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium following the visitors 3+ hour drive from Aberdeenshire for the first ever meeting between the two teams. Both sides entered the Saracen turf wearing their traditional strips and this game lived up to the billing of a typical `cup tie` with neither team giving an inch throughout and with a very strong wind prevalent the football content on show was pretty minimal however the decent crowd that turned up for the match were kept on their toes right up until Referee Alastair Leghorn blew for time up.
The `field made one change to the team that drew against Vale of Leven last week with Captain Ciaran Friel being replaced by Michael Giblin in the middle of the park. Chances were at a premium during the opening exchanges with firstly the visitors not being afraid to shoot from distance, backed by a ferocious wind in the first half, however the best chance of a disappointing first half came from the home side. It was midway through the half and the `field were awarded a free kick on the right hand side which was brilliantly delivered in by Keigan Parker. Gordon Passmore rose well and his bulleted header was brilliantly saved by Euan Rose in the Banchory goal tipping the net bound effort round the post to the anguish of the home support. Apart from a couple of efforts from Billy Stevenson and Michael Giblin, the latter`s effort going narrowly over, that was that in terms of chances in the first half with the well marshalled Banchory back four playing an extremely tight offside trap which frustrated the home side.
HT:- Ashfield 0 Banchory St Ternan 0
The second half initially followed the same path as the first half however as the half wore on the home side began to build up a head of steam albeit it only in the last 20 minutes. Again chances were at a Premium with the precise offside tactics deloyed by the Aberdeenshire outfit working well with the Ashfield front three infringing on a number of occasions. The home side were enforced to shuffle the pack and in doing so upped their tempo with Jordan Lynch going up and down the park to great effect. The game was still hard fought however a bit of petulance from one of the Banchory lads when he aimed a stamp at Graeme Hearton left Referee Leghorn with no alternative but to show a red card and the visitors were down to 10 men. It took a while for the `field to utilise the extra man advantage and it was Parker on the right that started to cause the Banchory defence problems with his deliveries. Dean Leverage was beginning also to get some joy down the left flank ably backed up by Mark McManus and as the clock ticked down, the `field eventually made the breakthrough with 8 minutes left. A corner from Keigan Parker was cleared back to him and the Ashfield forward delivered an inch perfect cross to the back post where an onrushing John Gaynor crashed his header against the post with the ball breaking out to Mark McManus who chested the ball down before volleying the ball into the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Banchory St Ternan 0. The team`s celebratons were there to see and were tinged with some relief. The visitors tried to get back into the game however the home side remained resolute until Banchory were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box right on the 90th Minute. A well worked free kick saw the ball drilled low and hard with Ashfield`s Keeper bringing off a great one handed save to ensure that the `field would be heading into the 3rd Round draw a week on Tuesday (9th). A really hard fought Cup tie which maybe should have gone to a replay however the `field never gave up and got their reward late on. It`s back to League business next Saturday (6th) in a top of the table clash against Lesmahagow at Craighead Park - Kick-Off 2pm..............`mon the `field !!!
McBookie West Region Division 2
Lesmahagow 2 Ashfield 0
Saturday 6th October 2018:-
It was a much awaited Match between Ashfield and Lesmahagow with both teams making an excellent start to the Season with today`s hosts reaching their first Cup Final in over 25 years where they play Auchinleck Talbot. A healthy crowd watched the `battle of the hoops` in lovely Autumn sunshine and for the neutral observers, it was a cracking match that had everything. Both teams were determined to consolidate their positions at the top end of the league with the added incentive for the home side that they would go top on goal difference should they win. It was the home side that started off the sharper and gave the Ashfield Back four an early examination utilising both flanks to great effect. The `field were defending well and had to and the early onslaught from the `gow resulted in a number of corners being which were well gathered by the big Ashfield Keeper Mullen. As the game began to settle down it was the Glasgow outfit that started to play their passing game and to look dangerous. Keigan Parker gave the gow defence an early warning cutting the ball back to an onrushing Dean Leverage however the Ashfield youngster placed the ball inches past the post to the anguish of the visiting support. The home side then almost went ahead following a corner with the ball being headed against the post and shortly after the Gow centre found space in the box however his glancing header went past the post.
Midway through the half and it was Ashfield that should have opened the scoring after a lovely move which saw the ball played through to Ciaran Friel with the Ashfield Captain electing to go alone instead of squaring to young Graeme Hearton who was standing alone, however his shot beat the advancing `Gow keeper only to see the ball crash off the bar and the post and was eventually scrambled to safety. A real let off for the hosts however straight from this chance Lesmahagow broke with pace down the right hand side before squaring the ball to an onrushing player who lashed the ball goalwards only to see the Ashfield Keeper make a brilliant stop. The ball, however broke out to James Faughnan who drove the ball home to the delight of the home support. Lesmahagow 1 Ashfield 0. A real blow for Ashfield and the visitors had to withstand some pressure following the goal however the `field`s back four were well marshalled by John Gaynor and Gordon Passmore. As the game approached half time, Ciaran Friel almost pulled Ashfield level as the ball was played across goal by Dean Leverage and his net bound effort was blocked by the `Gow Keeper and then cleared.
HT:- Lesmahagow 1 Ashfield 0
There were no changes at Half time for the `field and it was the visitors that took the game to the `gow for the next 25 minutes working extremely hard to level proceedings. The home side however were in a mean mood at the back and were well marshalled by Ex-Ashfield Stalwart Neill Schoneville who restricted the `field to shots from outside the box. The `field almost made their pressure count on a number of occasions with Parker lofting the ball over the Keeper but over the bar coupled with shots from Cullen and Friel which missed the target. The `field made a couple of changes bringing on Darren Macguire and Gavin Goodall to bolster the attack however as the Match edged into the closing stages it was the home side that began to hit the `field on the break and with 6 minutes remaining on the clock they closed out the Match with a well taken breakaway goal. The ball was played out to the right and found Jordan Lithgow who used his pace to pass Alan Cairns before drilling the ball low and hard underneath the Ashfield Keeper to put the Gow 2-0 up. Lesmahagow 2 Ashfield 0. The big Ashfield Keeper had played well however will be disappointed with this one. Billy Stevenson came on for Ashfield however shortly after the visitors were reduced to 10 men following a tackle from Colin Leverage and as the Ashfield Defender trooped off then the game was effectively over. The home side celebrated at the final whistle and now top the table however with two thirds of the League campaign still to go I am sure there will be many more twists and turns in this League race. The `field have certainly played worse and won and were left to rue the missed chances in the first half. It`s Saltcoats Victoria at Saracen next Saturday (13th) and the `field will be looking to get back to winning ways.
FT:- Lesmahagow 2 Ashfield 0
Macron Scottish Junior Cup 3rd Round
Ashfield 4 Neilston 2 - Saturday 27/10/18
I think everyone heading along to the Match yesterday were expecting a typical Scottish Junior Cup Tie and that is exactly what they got. Ashfield had watched Neilston at Larkhall last week and knew that they were up against a very good side with the front two of Patterson and Stewart particularly catching the eye. The weather had been kind and although chilly it was brilliant sunshine for the whole match which started with both teams playing in their traditional strips. It was an extremely competitive opening with both teams giving their all however the game was punctuated with free kicks and offside decisions early on. A couple Ashfield players found themselves in the book for first tackles so knew the boundaries that Referee Ryan Lee was willing to go to and infact the young East of Scotland Referee had a very good game.
The `Farmer boys` were beginning to exert some pressure on the home side as the half wore on with a number of free-kicks and corners and the `field were happy to hit Neilston on the break and this route almost paid off on the half hour mark when Gavin Goodall broke free of his marker and as Tiropoulos in the Neilston goal advanced, the young Ashfield striker lofted the ball over his head and agonisingly the ball landed on the top of the net. Ashfield were made to pay for this as 2 minutes later, Neilston went in front courtesy of a wonderful solo goal from Paul Stewart. The Ex-Arthurlie player gathered the ball on the right wing before evading a tackle and drove into the box and by that time nobody could touch him and he finished low to the Keepers` left to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 0 Neilston 1. A bad goal to lose for the home side however the Neilston player finished well. The `field had a couple of corners before half time however were struggling to break down a very well organised visiting defence and chances had been at a premium.
HT:- Ashfield 0 Neilston 1
There were no changes at Half time and the home side knew they had to `up the tempo` to salvage the Match and just as they went in search of an equaliser found themselves 2-0 down. A soft corner on the right at the `Possil` end of the ground was cleared by John Gaynor however as Ashfield players ran out to play offside the ball was delivered back into the box with the Neilston Centre half getting a header in which cannoned off the base of the post and out however the ball broke out to Neilston`s winger McBryde who drove the ball through a ruck of players and into the back of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 0 Neilston 2. A real blow for the `field and they immediately made two substitutes bringing on Alan Cairns and Jordan Lynch with Paul Maxwell moving up front to partner Keigan Parker and Dean Leverage on the left and all of a sudden Ashfield`s passes started to flow finding better width and the Midfield two of Friel and McManus started to find some room. The `field were unlucky not to pull a goal back in a crazy couple of minutes as the Neilston Keeper drove the ball at Leverage, with the ball then finding Stevenson who drove the ball into the net however Referee ruled it out for offside. Next a passback from the Neilston Centre half was handled by Tirpoloulos however Parker`s free-kick from the penalty spot area was headed off the line. A minute later however and Ashfield got their reward. Keigan Parker delivered a lovely floated corner to the back post and Paul Maxwell guided his header downwards and into the far corner of the net. Ashfield 1 Neilston 2. The home support began to see the home side work up a real head of steam and 3 minutes later, Kenny Hadden`s long throw in was won by Paul Maxwell in the box with the ball breaking to Keigan Parker on the edge of the six yard box and the Ashfield Striker took one touch before despatching the ball into the roof of the net.
Ashfield 2 Neilston 2. It was certainly `game on` and the home side knew there was something on and straight from the kick off the ball was played through to Dean Leverage and as the Neilston Keeper let the ball squirm from his grasp Halliday slipped on the ball before pushing it away with his hand and Referee Lee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Ashfield`s Captain Ciaran Friel stepped up and drove the ball home with the aid of the crossbar to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 3 Neilston 2. This had been an amazing turnaround and the visitors were struggling to forage forward with Ashfield pushing high up the park and on the 77th minute further increased their lead with the best goal of the game. Mark McManus who worked tirelessly throughout the Match won the ball in midfield before playing the ball out right to Keigan Parker and the Ex-St Johnstone and Blackpool player cut the ball back to the edge of the box where young Dean Leverage first timed his shot into the roof of the net to start the celebrations. A wonderfully taken goal from the Ashfield youngster. Ashfield 4 Neilston 2. It was difficult to imagine this scoreline after an hour of the Match however the changes to the formation in Ashfield`s set up worked magnificently enabling the `field to produce the type of form that they had been producing in the first tranche of League games. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close, in a Match played in very good spirit, it was the young Ashfield Academy kids that ran on the pitch to celebrate with the home side. A great day all round for Ashfield and commiserations to Neilston and we wish them all the best for the Season.
FT:- Ashfield 4 Neilston 2.
McBookie West Region League 2
Thorniewood Utd 0 Ashfield 2 - Saturday 3/11/2018
The weather forecast was not good ahead of yesterday`s re-arranged fixture at Robertson Park however Uddingston had its own micro-climate yesterday and the weather during the Match was very kind. Both teams had met in early September and a close encounter was expected again. Ashfield had a couple of returnees from injury and it was good to see Graeme Hearton back in the line up alongside debutant Lee Cochrane and also a return to the Goalkeeping position for Gary McLenaghan. The Match was played at great pace early on and it was the `field who started the brightest utilising the height of Paul Maxwell with a couple of close calls early on narrowly missing the goal. The `field were utilising the flanks extremely well coupled with Kenny Hadden`s long throw-ins and the Thorniewood back four had to be on their metal to keep the `field at bay. As the half wore on the home side began to carve some openings for themselves however Gary McLenaghan on the whole dealt well with some long range shooting from Thorniewood. On the half hour mark and just as the game was beginning to get a big bogged down in Midfield, the visitors opened the scoring and what a goal it was. The `field had been pressing however the ball broke out to young Lee Cochrane 25 yards out and the Ex-Renfrew man drove the ball into the top corner past the despairing arms of the `wood Keeper to the delight of the travelling support. This must be contender for goal of the Season and a great way to mark your debut. Thorniewood Utd 0 Ashfield 1. Ashfield sensed further goals and lay siege on the `wood back four for the next 5 minutes however efforts from Hearton and Maxwell were well dealt with. The home side finished the half well and both teams knew that the game was far from over.
HT:- Thorniewood Utd 0 Ashfield 1
The second half started in similar fashion to the first with Ashfield playing high up the park and before Thorniewood could plan to claw back the 1-0 deficit they found themselves further behind courtesy of an excellent strike from Graeme Hearton. The goal in the 48th minute came from a corner on the right where the ball was cleared from the penalty box however found Gordon Passmore in unfamiliar territory. The Ashfield stalwart managed to get a shot in which took a deflection into the path of Hearton and the young Ashfield Striker finished with aplomb for his 6th Goal of the Season. Thorniewood Utd 0 Ashfield 2. The home side made immediate changes to their line up and after a 10-15 minute spell of competitve football, all of a sudden the home side began to make some chances. The Ashfield back two of John Gaynor and Gordon Passmore had been terrific however the home side started playing diagonal balls into the box and should have pulled a goal back with 20 minutes to go as the ball was headed across the 6 yard box only to see Damon Welsh fail to control and the chance was lost. A couple of minutes later and a lovely one-two on the edge of the box saw the `wood`s No 7 drive the ball goalwards before taking a deflection past McLenaghan in the Ashfield goal and inches past the post. Following a corner, Thorniewood`s No 5 outjumped the visiting defence however could not keep his header down. The `field knew they were in a game and had to be at their best to keep the home side out however with 14 minutes left on the clock should have wrapped up the points following a brilliant run from Leverage saw the ball played across the goal however somehow Graeme Hearton put the ball over the crossbar when it looked easier to score. The home side continued to press Ashfield right up until the final whistle and played some good football however the `field remained resolute to secure a valuable three points. Not a failure in the Ashfield Team today with everyone working extremely hard. Special mentions to the back four and Keeper Gary McLenaghan and also Mark McManus in midfield. It`s back to Cup action this week for the West of Scotland Cup 1st Round Tie at home to Rossvale.
FT:- Thorniewood Utd 0 Ashfield 2
Ardagh West of Scotland Cup 1st Round:-
Ashfield 1 Rossvale 5 - Saturday 10/11/2018
This had been an eagerly awaited Cup tie since the draw was made at the start of the Season with both Teams having made good starts to the Season and are still in the Scottish Junior Cup after recent excellent victories against Neilston and Tayport respectively. The home side were unchanged from the side that won at Thorniewood last Saturday and there were a few familiar faces in the Rossvale team who are really making a name for themselves in Junior Football. The home side knew this would be a stern test however despite this found themselves a goal down in just 28 seconds when the `field failed to clear their `lines` on two separate occasions with the ball breaking to the Rossvale Captain Jamie Hunter, who took one step forward before despatching a curling shot from 25 yards past the despairing arms of Gary McLenaghan to put the Bishopbriggs outfit 1-0 up. Ashfield 0 Rossvale 1. The `field did not let this affect them and went straight on the offensive to get an equaliser and tested the visiting back four for the next period however were unable to create the clear cut chance their pressure deserved. The game effectively `turned on its head` in the 19th Minute when Referee McTiernan took `centre stage` by sending off Ashfield Midfielder Lee Cochrane for complaining at not being awarded a free-kick. A very harsh decision in the context of the game leaving the`field with a massive uphill task. Rossvale were playing with confidence and utilised the tight Saracen flanks extremely well with McGonigle and Giffen causing the `field problems with their pace. Ashfield kept things tight at the back and Graeme Hearton and Keigan Parker were linking up well and Just before the half hour mark a lovely floated ball to the back post evaded the Rossvale back four and Mark McManus glanced his header into the corner of the net to the delight of the home support for his 4th goal of the Season. Ashfield 1 Rossvale 1. Both teams pressed forward at every opportunity and as the Referee brought proceedings to a close, the home side could be happy with their first half performance considering they played most of it with 10 men.
HT:- Ashfield 1 Rossvale 1
The second half started in similar vein to the first with the visitors pushing forward and holding a high line and were determined in the early stages to make the extra man count. The pitch was now beginning to cut up after the recent rain in Glasgow and some players were slipping on the underfoot conditions. Just before the hour mark an uncharacteristic mistake from John Gaynor allowed Liam McGonigle a run in on goal and despite a brilliant stop from McLenaghan the ball broke out to Giffen who lashed the ball into the net to put Rossvale 2-1 up. Ashfield 1 Rossvale 2. Just as Ashfield were regrouping from this set back the visitors swept down the right hand side at pace before despatching a low ball into the path of Chris Zok, who despite the attentions of 2 Ashfield defenders, bulleted the ball beyond McLenaghan to put the `vale in the driving seat. Ashfield 1 Rossvale 3. Ashfield still had 30 minutes to try and stay in the Cup and made a couple of changes however as they pushed men forward they were constantly hit on the break by the pacy visitors and this route resulted in the awarding of a penalty when Giffen was brought down by Passmore. After much deliberation by the Referee as where the Penalty Spot was, the award was brilliantly saved by Gary McLenaghan. This gave the `field a boost and the `field came close to reducing the deficit, firstly a curling free-kick from Keigan Parker was well saved by the Vale Keeper however next up was Patrick Cullen who drove a Free-Kick award against the upright to the anguish of the home support. The game was finished 6 minutes to go when John Gaynor lost his footing and Liam McGonigle `pinched` the ball from him and in addition noticed that the Ashfield Keeper has been out of his goal and drilled a shot in at the Keepers near post to put the `game to bed`. Ashfield 1 Rossvale 4. Worse was to follow on the 90th Minute as a ball was played to McGonigle again at the edge of the box and the Vale winger placed his shot into the corner of the net to the delight of the visiting support to cap off an excellent performance from Rossvale. Ashfield 1 Rossvale 5. The Draw was made for the 2nd Round shortly after the Match and Rossvale will entertain Cambuslang Rangers in the next round. The `field will have to learn from this Match as they welcome Annbank Utd to Saracen Park next Saturday before heading to Rutherglen the week after in the 4th Round of the Scottish Junior Cup. We wish Rossvale well for the remainder of the season.
FT:- Ashfield 1 Rossvale 5
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Ashfield 8 Annbank United 2 - Saturday 17/11/2018
A lovely winter`s day greeted both teams onto the Saracen Turf for the first League encounter between the teams since the 2010-2011 Season. The `field made a number of changes from last week`s cup Match with a very offensive line up and the Ayrshire outfit were in their away strip of Red with black & white stripe. It was a `carbon copy` of the start of last week`s Match with Gary McLenaghan having to pick the ball out of the net in under a minute. From kick-off the ball was played out to the right wing and with the Ashfield back four appealing for offside the Bankies No 7 took a step forward before driving a low shot into the far corner of the net. An excellent finish from the lad. Ashfield 0 Annbank Utd 1. The `field were up against it in the first quarter with the Bankies swarming forward at every opportunity and McLenaghan and his back four had to look lively on a number of occasions. As the half wore on, the `field started to play their passing game and all of a sudden the pendulum swung. The `field`s equaliser came from a long throw in from Kenny Hadden with Ciaran Friel nipping ahead of his markers before volleying a shot over the Bankies Keeoer and into the roof of the net. Ashfield 1 Annbank Utd 1. The `field were now on form and following a corner a few minutes later, Patrick Cullen got away from his marker however his bullet header was blocked on the line with the ball falling to Ciaran Friel 8 yards out and the Ashfield Captain made no mistake with the rebound. Ashfield 2 Annbank Utd 1. The game swung from end to end for a period and it was Ashfield that went further ahead following an Annbank attack with Billy Stevenson breaking clear down the right flank before delivering the ball across to Keigan Parker who evaded a tackle before lashing the ball into the corner of the net. A great goal from Ashfield. Ashfield 3 Annbank Utd 1. As both teams were looking forward to their half time Cup of Tea, Ashfield delivered the ball into the box one last time and Referee Regan Wallace immediately pointed to the spot. It appeared that Friel when going for a header was pulled back however the decision seemed a bit on the soft side. Anyway Ciaran Friel stepped up and drilled his spot-kick past the despairing arms of the Bankies Keeper to complete his hat-trick. Ashfield 4 Annbank Utd 1.
HT:- ASHFIELD 4 ANNBANK UNITED 1
It had been a closer first half than the scoreline would suggest however as tight as the first half was, the second half belonged to Ashfield as they lay siege on the Bankies goal virtually straight from Kick-Off and played some really nice football shooting into the Possil end of the ground. After a period of pressure when Mark McManus almost got on the scoresheet with a shot from 6 yards out which cannoned back of the post, the `field went further ahead from a corner. Keigan Parker`s wicked Corner on the hour mark found Friel outjumping the Bankies defence and his header tore into the back of the net. Ashfield 5 Annbank Utd 1. Ashfield brought on Gordon Passmore for Kenny Hadden however not long after the Bankies reduced the deficit following a mix up at the far post with the Bankies No 11 taking full advantage driving the ball low and hard into the far corner. Ashfield 5 Annbank Utd 2. Ashfield were annoyed at losing this goal and set about trying to increase their lead and this they did shortly after when the ball was played into the path of Graeme Hearton who drew the Keeper out before driving the ball into the net. Ashfield 6 Annbank Urd 2. Further misery was to come for the Ayrshire team as they struggled with Parker`s deliveries into the box and from the other side Keigan Parker`s cross found Paddy Cullen ghosting in at the far post to head in his first goal of the Season to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 7 Annbank Utd 2. The visitors were now wishing the game to finish however to their credit kept on pushing forward at every opportunity however before the Referee brought proceedings to a close it was Ashfield`s Captain, Ciaran Friel who finished off a lovely move for his fifth goal of the game and Ashfield`s eighth. Ashfield 8 Annbank Utd 2. It was just one of the games with the `field looking very good going forward which set`s up the `field nicely for next week`s trip to Rutherglen in the Scottish Junior Cup.
FT:- ASHFIELD 8 ANNBANK UNITED 2
Macron Scottish Junior Cup 4th Round:-
Rutherglen Glencairn 7 Ashfield 1 - Saturday 24/11/2018
The heavy overnight rain had not affected the Celsius Stadium pitch ahead of this eagerly awaiting 4th Round Scottish Junior Cup tie against two teams competing at the top end of their respective divisions. It was one win-a-piece in terms of matches last Season, with the `field winning a West of Scotland Tie at Saracen Park however the Glens gained revenge later in the Season putting the `field out of the Central League Cup.
A couple of changes to the Ashfield team following last week`s excellent victory and from Referee White`s first whistle, the game was played at a very high tempo. Ashfield were conscious of the pace of the the Glens attackers however had pace themselves in Graeme Hearton who started the game extremely well linking up well with Keigan Parker. The `field forced the initial play however were restricted to long range shots in the opening exchanges and just as they were beginning to settle into the game, they found themselves a goal down with the home side`s first attack. A long range shot was blocked by young Colin Leverage at the back for Ashfield however the ball broke to Simeone who controlled the ball before drilling the ball low and hard into the back of the net to the delight of the home support. A real blow for Ashfield so early on. R`Glen Glencairn 1 Ashfield 0. This sprung the `field into action and they managed to create some chances firstly with Keigan Parker having a snap shot from outside the box which went agonisingly wide. On 13 minutes however the visitors had a glorious opportunity when Parker was played through and as the Keeper advanced, the Ashfield striker went for power and his shot was brilliantly saved by the Glens Keeper. Shortly after this the `field secured a corner on the far side, which was delivered to the far post with John Gaynor getting ahead of his marker and with six yards out bulleted his header wide of the target. These chances came back to `haunt` Ashfield as the home side began to step up a gear utilising the flanks well and trying to stretch the visitors back four and after a period of pressure got their reward on the 31st Minute. An angled shot from the right took a wicked deflection along the six yard box and it was Harry Mitchell that was first to react and had the easiest of tap ins to put the Glens further ahead. R`Glen Glencairn 2 Ashfield 0. Ashfield had to keep the game tight and were still pushing forward at every opportunity. The Glens Keeper had to be on form again when a 20 yard drive from Kenny Hadden was well saved. However as the game approached Half Time, disaster struck for the `field. The `all important` third goal came when the `field were on attack however once they lost possession, the pace of the Glens front four was there to see as they broke quickly down the right hand side and right on the bye line Del Esplin managed to scoop the ball across the six yard box evading McLenaghan in the Ashfield goal and McArdle headed in the third goal. R`Glen 3 Ashfield 0. This was a really sore goal to lose from an Ashfield point of view and certainly put the game almost out of reach for the West Region Division 2 side.
HT:- R`GLEN GLENCAIRN 3 ASHFIELD 0
Paul Maxwell decided to make an offensive change at Half time, bringing on Billy Stevenson to replace midfielder Jordan Lynch in a bid to claw back the deficit and on the whole defended well and broke well when they could for the next period. Another chance fell to Keigan Parker on the 55th Minute after making a lovely run however again it was the Glens Keeper who thwarted the Ashfield striker and shortly after the game was effectively `put to bed` when a low hard shot from Stevie Kerr from just inside the box went in despite the attentions of Gary McLenaghan in the Ashfield goal. R`Glen Glencairn 4 Ashfield 0. A couple of changes were made with Gavin Goodall replacing Keigan Parker and the Glens brought on top scorer Gary Smith. Unfortunately for the `field this did not stem the tide as the home side started the play with some style and started to `pepper` the Ashfield goal from all angles and on the 71st Minute went further ahead courtesy of a well drilled shot from Simeone for his 2nd of the game. R`Glen Glencairn 5 Ashfield 0. To the `field`s credit they kept plugging away however were now being picked off and with 8 minutes left despite a couple of great blocks from McLenaghan, Gary Smith got himself on the scoresheet. R`Glen Glencairn 6 Ashfield 0. The `field were struggling now and a minute later a speculative shot from Del Esplin bounced over the Ashfield Keepers arms and into the net for Number 7. R`Glen Glencairn 7 Ashfield 0. The `field had to rearrange things following an injury to Billy Stevenson with Dean Leverage coming on and the Ashfield winger made a really good impression and it was from this source that Ashfield got a consolation goal with the ball being played into the box. A glancing header found John Gaynor at the back post and the Ashfield Centre Half drove the ball into the net. R`Glen Glencairn 7 Ashfield 1. The North Glasgow Team were delighted to hear the final whistle and can only look back at what might have been against a very good team in Glencairn. We wish them all the best for the remainder of the Season.
FT:- R`GLEN GLENCAIRN 7 ASHFIELD 1
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 2 Carluke Rovers 3 - Saturday 1/12/2018
Again, the pitch at Saracen Park held up to days of torrential rain and was one of only 2 games on in our League this Saturday. This was an important match for both sides with the `field determined to build a gap between third place and the `chasing pack` which included Carluke Rovers. Paul Maxwell had made a few tactical changes and changes that were enforced through injury and this was the same as the visitors. Both teams were determined to put last Saturday`s exit`s in the Scottish Junior Cup behind them as the game started off at great pace with the narrow confines of Saracen Park being fully utilised. The visitors were causing Ashfield problems in the early exchanges from the long throw source however debutant Ashfield Keeper Cameron Farquhar, recently signed from Islavale in the North Region, coped well with this threat. As the half wore on Graeme Hearton and Keigan Parker were linking up well and Mark McManus was having a terrific half on the left hand side pin pointing deliveries to the front two and it was from this source that Ashfield opened the scoring. Dean Leverage played Mark McManus down the left flank and his pin point cross was met by Parker at the far post who glanced his header across the six yard box to the onrushing Graeme Hearton who drove the ball into the net to put the home side ahead. Ashfield 1 Carluke Rovers 0. Ashfield continued to press forward after this with the visitors struggling to make an impact apart from set pieces and it was not long until the `field went further ahead. Again it came from the left hand side with McManus causing the danger and his cross was met by Keigan Parker who got on the end of Hearton`s touch to force the ball over the line to put the `field 2-0 up. Ashfield 2 Carluke Rovers 0. The game remained competitive throughout the half and Referee James Burns had to produce the yellow card on a number of occasions which would come to have an effect later on in the game. As the teams trooped off for their half time Cup of Tea nobody in the 50+ crowd expected the game to turn full circle in the second half.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 CARLUKE ROVERS 0
I must say that the majority of the Crowd at the Match missed the `turning point` of the Match due to enjoying the warmith inside the Tigers Den Cafeteria as within 6 seconds of the restart ex-Royal Albert striker Eddie Haley took full advantage of a defensive mix up robbing the ball from Farquhar in the Ashfield goal to pull Carluke back into the game. Ashfield 2 Carluke Rovers 1. A bizarre start to the half however this had the effect of galvanising the visitors who set about trying to get an equaliser. Ashfield were dangerous looking with Parker, Goodall and Hearton leading the line up front however were not as effective as the first half mainly due to the visitors breaking in numbers at every opportunity. The game became rather tousy and with 20 minutes to go Ashfield stalwart Gordon Passmore was late with a tackle and was shown a second yellow card. Ashfield had not regrouped properly as within 30 seconds of the dismissal Carluke had equalised from an area where Passmore was covering. A lovely floated ball to the far post was met by Biggart who managed to volley the ball past Farquhar despite the attentions of the Ashfield defence. Ashfield 2 Carluke Rovers 2. This was a real blow to the home side who were now a man down with 20 minutes to go however to be fair to the `field they foraged forward at every opportunity to try and win the Match as the game swung from end to end. With 7 minutes remaining on the clock, the visitors found some space some 22 yards out and the Rovers Midfielder Grierson drove the ball into the back of the net to the delight of the travelling supporters. Ashfield 2 Carluke Rovers 3. A disaster for the `field which was made worse shortly after when Ashfield`s best player on the day, Graeme Hearton was given a straight `Red`for a lunge on the touchline and the `field were now down to 9 men. A real turnaround and Ashfield will be `kicking themselves` at allowing Carluke back into the game however fair play to the visitors who took full advantage with a good showing in the second half. This result makes this tight League even tighter as the `field head off on their travels in the next two weeks to play Ardeer Thistle on the 8th and Forth Wanderers on the 15th.....`mon the `field !
FT:- ASHFIELD 2 CARLUKE ROVERS 3
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 1 Lanark United 3 - Saturday 22/12/2018
The pitch was the big talking point as we arrived at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium on Saturday as there had been a substantial amount of rain in the Glasgow area over the last 36 hours, however the Park , although heavy was playable and the eagerly anticipated Match between 2nd and 3rd in the Table went ahead. Ashfield had the same line up that despatched seven past Ardeer Thistle with Graeme Hearton still missing through suspension.
Well, If you had been a late arriver at the Match you would have certainly missed some action as straight from the Kick-Off the ball was played into the Ashfield box with Watt getting ahead of the advancing Farquhar in the Ashfield goal with Referee McDonald pointing to the spot within the first 30 seconds. Ashfield did appeal that there was not much contact however the Referee was having none of it. Ashfield`s new Keeper from Islavale produced a terrific one handed save to palm away Ian Watt`s effort and the game remained all square. It was Ashfield`s turn to forage forward and a succession of corners caused alarm in the visiting defence however it was the visitors who broke the deadlock after 4 minutes when Colin Leverage was adjudged to have passed the ball back to the `field Keeper. As the players lined up on the goal line it was difficult to see how Lanark could score however the ball was pulled back to Lawson who drilled the ball between flying Ashfield players and into the back of the net. Ashfield 0 Lanark Utd 1. A blow for the home side who set about trying to equalise straight away and again a succession of corners were dealt with by the Lanark defence however the ball broke to Ashfield left back Alan Cairns who lofted the ball to the far post only to see Ciaran Friel`s downward header blocked on the goal line and eventually scrambled clear. With many of the home side in attack, Lanark broke at pace and a ball was played over the back four where Declan Lafferty evaded the offside trap to lob the ball over the advancing Keeper and put the visitors further ahead after 10 mins. Ashfield 0 Lanark Utd 2. The visiting supporters and players celebrated as this was to prove a vital goal for Lanark. The home side had a `mountain to climb` however set about it in the right manner utilising the flanks well and causing problems at set-pieces. It was a pretty open affair and the next goal was vital and for the home faithful it turned out to be Ashfield. The goal came from route 1 with Cameron Farquhar clearing his lines, the ball was met by Player/Manager Paul Maxwell who guided the ball into the path of striker Keigan Parker who let the ball bounce once before despatching an unstoppable drive into the far corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Lanark Utd 2. It was `game on` now and both teams went `hammer and tongs` at each other for the remaining half.
HT:- Ashfield 1 Lanark Utd 2
It had been a pulsating first half and the home side showed in the early stages of the second half that there were determined to get level and although the visitors pace was a real problem, it was the `field that carved out the best chances in the next half hour with the Lanark Keeper in fine form. Paul Maxwell and CIaran Friel came close with headers and then after a terrific move the ball was played through to Keigan Parker who lofted the ball over the advancing keeper only to see it agonisingly land on top of the net. The `field were forced into a couple of substitutions with Billy Stevenson back from injury trying to keep the pressure on however as the park became heavier it was difficult to get much cohesion and with 12 minutes left on the clock, it was the visitors who effectively `put the game to bed` following a bad clearance out of defence. The ball was picked up by Ex-Carluke Rovers striker, Ian Watt and the pacey forward evaded a couple of tackles before drilling the ball low and hard into the far corner of the net to send the travelling support wild. A very good finish but again it was self inflicted from Ashfield. Ashfield 1 Lanark Utd 3. This goal `knocked the stuffing` out of Ashfield who had put in an excellent shift up to that point and it was the visitors that looked more like adding to their tally and as the Referee brought proceedings to a close, it was the visitors that `leapfrogged` Lesmahagow to take over at the top of the League. Ashfield now have a few vital games in the coming weeks to try and move away from the `chasing pack` of Carluke Rovers and Vale of Leven as the `field head to the `seaside`next week to take on Saltcoats Victoria at Campbell Park on the 29th December - KO 1.45pm......`mon the `field !
FT:- Ashfield 1 Lanark Utd 3
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Saltcoats Victoria 2 Ashfield 4 - Saturday 29/12/2018
The Ashfield stats were perused pre-Match to ascertain when the last time the two teams had met in a competitive fixture and it transpired that it was just over 40 years ago in a West of Scotland Cup Tie 1st Round at Saracen Park when Ashfield won 3-1 however the last time the teams met at Saltcoats was even further back in a West of Scotland Cup in the 1962/63 Season which ended 2-2, with the `field winning the replay 3-1. The weather conditions were fair however the underfoot conditions were tricky on the big playing surface at Campbell Park and both teams took a wee while to adjust early on with the game swinging from end to end. It took the visitors a good 15 minutes to start their passing game and were beginning to get some joy down the right hand flank and it was from this area that Ashfield took the lead on 20 minutes. A nice passing move saw Colin Leverage overlap his marker and play a deep cross to the far post with the ball breaking out to Lee Cochrane who twisted and turned his marker before drilling the ball into the corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Saltcoats Vics 0 Ashfield 1. It was all Ashfield for next 10 minutes and Chris Wright had to be alert on a number of occasions in the Vics goal however after this period the home side began to cause Ashfield some problems and had a succession of corners which were well defended. The Vics No 9 was extremely lively and on the 33rd Minute drove at the Ashfield goal before delivering an inch perfect curling shot into the top corner giving Farquhar in the `field goal no chance. Saltcoats Vics 1 Ashfield 1. It was game on now and for the remainder of the half the game swung from end to end before Referee Marshall brought proceedings to a halt.
HT:- SALTCOATS VICS 1 ASHFIELD 1
The home side looked a different outfit in the second half and for the first 15 minutes lay siege on the Ashfield goal. There are a number of talented and pacy individuals in the Saltcoats team and Ashfield, despite playing with the wind behind them, were struggling to get out their half. A lovely move on the break from the home side brought out two magnificent saves from Cameron Farquhar in the Ashfield goal with the second save drawing a round of applause from everyone in the ground including the Vics Keeper. Another great block from Farquhar shortly after ensured that the `field would re-organise their line up bringing on John Gaynor and pushing Paul Maxwell up front. As the `field began to weather the storm they were awarded a free-kick 25 yards out. Alan Cairns and Lee Cochrane stood over the ball however it was the latter that drove the ball into the top corner of the net leaving Chris Wright with no chance - an absolute corker of a delivery and the `field were ahead. Saltcoats Vics 1 Ashfield 2. This goal galvanised the visitors and after a succession of corners, it was Player/Manager Paul Maxwell who outjumped the Vics back four to bullet a header into the roof of the net to what Ashfield thought would be enough to ensure victory. Saltcoats Vics 1 Ashfield 3. Despite the `field now knocking the ball about well it was the home side that were given a free-kick on the edge of the Ashfield box with 4 minutes to go. Again the Kick was delivered with aplomb hitting the back of the net in seconds to ensure a rousing finale to the Match. Saltcoats Vics 2 Ashfield 3. Just as the home side set themselves up to `have a go` at Ashfield, the visitors had different ideas and after a lovely attacking move, the ball was played through to an advancing Ciaran Friel who beat Chris Wright to the ball knocking the ball into the net to ensure the points were heading back up the road to Glasgow. Saltcoats Vics 2 Ashfield 4. All in all a terrific match where both sides can take a lot of positives from as the fixtures now come thick and fast with the `field welcoming Vale of Clyde to North Glasgow next Saturday with the Vics travelling to Newmains.
Ashfield`s Team on Saturday :- Farquhar, C Leverage, Cairns, Maxwell, Passmore, Friel (Capt), McManus, Lynch, Stevenson, Cochrane and Hearton. Subs:- Gaynor, Goodall, D Leverage & McFarlane
Referee:- Rodney Marshall
FT:- SALTCOATS VICS 2 ASHFIELD 4
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 4 - Saturday 05/01/2019
It was fitting that one of the the oldest Junior Clubs in Scotland were Ashfield`s `first footers` in this important West Region Division 2 league encounter with valuable points at stake. Both Teams were buoyed by last week`s victories on the North Ayrshire Coast against Saltcoats and Ardeer respectively and 10 points was the difference between the teams before Referee Steven MacKay blew his whistle to open proceedings. It was visible in the early stages that the Vale front two were going to give the Ashfield defence a torrid time and were not giving the back four any time to play out of defence. The `field were enforced into a number of changes due to injury today and Kenny Hadden slotted into the left back berth with John Gaynor back in the centre of defence. The `field had conceded early in their last home encounter and found themselves a goal down after a mix up in defence. A ball was played over the back four and hesitation between the Keeper and the defence allowed Ross Clift to guide a shot into the corner to the delight of the travelling support. A bad goal to lose from the home side`s point of view and again the `field were left to chase the game. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 1. The `tin pail` were buoyed by this however had to withstand some Ashfield pressure via a number of corners, long throw ins and free kicks with Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel going extremely close on a couple of occasions. As the game approached the half hour mark Ashfield fell further behind courtesy of an infringement from Colin Leverage on the Vale forward, the decision seemed rather harsh as the offence appeared outside the box however despite Ashfield`s protestations, the spot-kick was hammered in by Kevin Fraser despite the valiant effort of Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 2. A real blow for Ashfield and try as they did the home side were struggling to break down a well organised Vale outfit who were really boosted by their first half goals and on the first half showing it was going to be difficult to see how Ashfield were going to claw themselves back into the game
HT:- ASHFIELD 0 VALE OF CLYDE 2
A 2-0 lead can sometimes be a difficult lead to hold onto so the next goal in the Match was vital for Ashfield and within a minute of the second half were presented with a gilt edged chance to do that after a lovely move saw Keigan Parker break through the Vale defence and as the ball sat up nicely the normally prolific scorer blasted the ball against the Vale Keeper and was cleared to safety. A real chance for Ashfield who for the next 15-20 minutes encamped themselves in the visitors half however despite the pressure chances were at a premium with a couple of shots richocheting past the box and corners being scrambled away. The `field also changed their line up bringing on a further striker in Gavin Goodall and as the game approached the last 15 minutes moved John Gaynor up front too to try and make the breakthrough however the Vale defence were extremely well disciplined and as the `field pushed forward they began to find holes in the midfield and after bringing on subs themselves put the `game to bed` with 5 minutes remaining after a sweeping move saw the ball cut back to Sam Donald who drove the ball into an empty net to win the Match. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 3. To make matters worse the home side conceded a further goal in stoppage time after Referee MacKay spotted a handball in the box and despite Cammy Farquhar saving the spot-kick the rebound was converted by Ryan Murphy to inflict Ashfield`s heaviest league defeat of the Season. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 4. The only crumb of comfort from today was the fact that the `field still remain in the Promotion place due to Vale of Leven and Carluke failing to win their matches however it is a long way to go and this final promotion place will I am sure `go to the wire`. It`s off to McKenna Park next Saturday to play the Ants - Kick-Off 1.45pm.
FT:- ASHFIELD 0 VALE OF CLYDE 4
McBookie West Region Division 2:-
St Anthony`s 1 Ashfield 0 - Saturday 12/01/2019
No matter what the weather, McKenna Park is always in good shape and despite the wet underfoot conditions the pitch was in excellent condition for this stage of the Season as both teams entered the Match looking to boost their league position with a win. The `field, sporting their away strip of yellow & black, had been busy during the week in signing 2 new faces and one returning to Saracen Park again. Ciaron Smith, Aiden McNeil and ex-Ashfield Captain Alexander Amos went straight into Paul Maxwell`s line up and an exciting game was in prospect. The `field started the quickest out the `blocks` and the Ants Keeper was called into action twice in the first 7 minutes saving a couple of Ciaran Friel efforts as the Match started at a great tempo. As the half wore on it was the home side that started to use the flanks well and should have gone ahead in 20 minutes after Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal pushed out a shot only to see the Ants Centre blast the ball over. The Referee was keen to let play flow and the game went from end to end for a while. Cammy Farquhar was called into action on the half hour mark after lovely play down the right had side resulting in the Ashfield Keeper parrying a net bound effort. Keigan Parker was also finding some space and his deliveries were causing the Ants back four some trouble. On the 38th Minute Ashfield went closest to open the scoring as Parker delivered a corner only to see Alex Amos`s header crash off the crossbar before being cleared to safety. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close the 60+ Crowd knew that they were in for more of the same in the second half.
HT:- ST ANTHONY`S 0 ASHFIELD 0
With Carluke and Vale of Leven breathing down Ashfield`s neck for the 3rd Promotion place, the `field were determined to get the points on the board with 2 home games coming up however for the next 20 minutes both teams cancelled each other out with some excellent tackling and defending and chances were at a premium. Ashfield eventually managed to put the home side under some concerted pressure with 20 minutes to go when a lovely move saw Aiden McNeil find some space for himself on the edge of the box and his net bound drive was brilliant saved by the Ants Keeper, the ball however dropped to an onrushing Lee Cochrane who agonisingly diverted the ball inches by the post. The `field unfortunately were left to rue that miss and with 11 minutes left on the clock the Ants sprang Ashfield`s offisde trap and the new home side`s striker raced in on goal before drilling the ball past the despairing arms of Cammy Farquhar to the delight of the home support. St Anthony`s 1 Ashfield 0. A real blow for Ashfield who made a couple of substitutions to try and salvage the Match. The Ants back four held firm until the 3rd minute of injury time when Ashfield were awarded another corner on the far side which was whipped in from Ciaran Friel. Substitute Billy Stevenson managed to direct his header towards goal from 6 yards out only to see the Ants Keeper pull off a one handed stop despite the close attention of Ashfield players. In making the save the Ants Keeper dislocated his finger and was replaced for the final minutes by an Ants midfielder however the home side held on to take the points and the `field will know they have played worse and won this Season. The `field fall out of the top 3 for the first time this Season and now have two vital home games coming up against Muirkirk and Johnstone Burgh to keep in the promotion race.
FT:- ST ANTHONY`S 1 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield`s Team:- Farquhar, C.Leverage, D.Leverage, Amos, Passmore, Lynch, Cochrane, Friel, Smith, McNeil and Parker. Subs:- Stevenson, Giblin, Hadden, Hamilton and McLaughlin
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 0 Johnstone Burgh 2 - Saturday 26/01/2019
Ashfield welcomed Johnstone Burgh to a soggy Saracen Park as the rain lashed down all morning and for most of the Match with the Pitch taking a pounding and was barely playable however both sets of players deserve enormous credit for putting on a decent spectacle in this important League Match. The home side made a number of changes and introduced Ex-Pollok stalwart Paul McQuilken into a midfield berth as they sought to gain valuable points in their push for promotion. The game started off at a good pace and Ashfield were passing the ball about well with Mark McManus and Dean Leverage causing the Burgh defence problems down the left. Lee Cochrane was also `catching the eye` with his workrate in Midfield and the `field had a number of efforts at goal which were either blocked or narrowly missed the target. On the 20th minute the Burgh Keeper brought out a wonderful save from a 20 yard effort from Paul McQuilken palming the net bound effort over the crossbar. A number of corners were had but well defended. It was not all one way traffic and the Burgh almost went ahead on 25 minutes as the ball was played through to Esplin and he advanced through on goal before rounding Farquhar however Dean Leverage was on the line to clear. Next up Cameron Farquhar pulled off a magnificent save as the ball broke out from a Burgh Corner with the ball being driven goalwards only to see the Ashfield Keeper pull off an excellent block. The Referee was kept busy in this competitive first half and as he brought proceedings to a halt in the first half the crowd knew that this game could go either way.
HT:- ASHFIELD 0 JOHNSTONE BURGH 0
The 2nd half was a carbon copy of the first half with Ashfield on top in the early stages with the visitors then coming into the game as the half wore on. Chances were less prevalent in the second half as the pitch became something resembling a `gluepot` and restricted some of the moves forward. Johnstone Burgh`s half time substitute made a difference to the visitors attacking prowess down the right flank in the second half and as the half wore on the home side became more frustrated at the lack of chances being made. Keigan Parker came on for young Ryan McLaughlin in the middle of the park ,who acquitted himself very well, however Parker struggled to make an impact trying to link up with Ciaron Smith. With around 15 minute`s to go the visitors began to exert some pressure on the home goal however Gaynor and Amos were in good form however with 10 left on the clock the visitors were awarded a free kick midway inside the Ashfield half. The ball was wickedly driven in and the ball was initially blocked but broke across the goal to an onrushing Gary Nugent who lashed the ball into the empty net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 0 Johnstone Burgh 1. A real disaster for Ashfield as they set about trying to claw themselves back into the game. There were some tired legs out there now and despite pressing forward at every opportunity it was the Burgh defence that stood firm and to rub `salt in the wound` broke free in the 2nd minute of injury time. The Burgh Substitute Billy Davies still had a lot to do however as Farquhar advanced forward Davies drove the ball high into the roof of the net to ensure that all three points were heading back to Renfrewshire. Ashfield 0 Johnstone Burgh 2. A real blow to Ashfield`s promotion hopes with their third defeat on the trot however as was the case at St Anthony`s in their last outing, the `field will have played worse and won. With Vale of Leven and Carluke Rovers stretching their advantage over Ashfield there can be no more `slips ups`. Next up is a trip to New Pebble Park to take on Annbank Utd on Saturday 9th February 2019 - KO 1.45pm.....`mon the `field !
FT:- ASHFIELD 0 JOHNSTONE BURGH 2
Ashfield Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Amos, Gaynor, McQuilken, Cochrane, McManus, Smith, McLaughlin and McNeil. Subs:- Lynch (used), Parker (used), Goodall, Hamilton and Passmore.
McBookie West Region Division 2
Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 3 - Saturday 16th February 2019
It was great to get a game on a Saturday as it had been a few weeks since Ashfield had played and the game did not come any bigger than a trip to Millburn Park to take on Vale of Leven, who were now sitting in the Promotion spot after a period of positive sustained results. The `field knew what they had to do today in order to claw themselves back into the promotion race and that was really a victory and as they set about their task against determined opponents in their away strip of all red. The opening exchanges were fast and furious and Ashfield had a couple of players playing out of positions due to injuries and young Lee Cochrane moved from his Midfield berth to support Graeme Heaton up front and it was those who linked up well in the 7th minute when Graeme Hearton almost connected to a Lee Cochrane cross. Shortly after and Mark McManus found some space in the box at an acute angle and his volley narrowly missed the far post. Vale of Leven stepped up the pace shortly after and a lovely move saw McGeachy played through and after rounding Farquhar his net bound effort was cleared on the line by Alex Amos. Five minutes later and it was Ashfield``s turn to have a one on one when Giblin played through Cochrane and as the Keeper advanced his shot was blocked by the home keeper however on the 26th Minute, Sheilds in the Vale goal had no chance with an Ashfield effort. Michael Giblin, returning after long term injury, gathered the ball 25 yards out and took a step before drilling a shot into the top corner of the net to put the `field ahead. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 1. It was a tremendous strike from the Ashfield Midfielder and officially opened his goalscoring account for the season. The home side became rattled after this and were guilty of a couple of strong challenges in which Referee Peacock brandished his yellow card. The home side were determined to try and get on level terms before the interval however Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal was commanding in the air and chances were at a premium for the home side. Ashfield had a chance on the 40th minute when a glancing header went by the far post from a free kick however were quite happy to see half time and regroup for the 2nd.
HT:- VALE OF LEVEN 0 ASHFIELD 1
The Half time resfreshments were welcome on this damp day and the crowd of circa 100 were all set for another absorbing 45 minutes. No changes to either line up as the game started and for a period of time the game became embroiled in midfield and a bit stop-start due to injuries. The home side were struggling to get any sort of sustained pressure on Ashfield as the back four were extremely well marshalled and were beginning to break with pace. Mark McManus and Michael Giblin were getting joy down the flanks and Billy Stevenson who replaced Graeme Hearton in the first half was making his presence known to the Vale defence.
Just after the hour mark and Ashfield`s afternoon just got better. Again it was good defensive work from Ashfield which allowed the ball to be played through the middle to Michael Giblin who then laid off a superb pass to Mark McManus on the edge of the box. The Ashfield Midfielder had time to look up and float a lovely ball to the far post where Michael Giblin came running in and bulleted a header into the roof of the net to the delight of the travelling support. A really well worked goal from Ashfield and the reaction from the players was there to see. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 2. The home side made a couple of changes after this however it was Goalkeeper Sheilds that kept the score down after a magnificent block from a left foot volley from Paul McQuilken, The Ex-Pollok stalwart thought that he had opened his account for the `field. Next up Cammy Farquhar had to deal with a shot from the right in which he just managed to keep the ball out before another Ashfield attack saw the ball break nicely to Mark McManus in the box however his left foot volley crashed off the post and was cleared to safety. As the game entered the last 5 minuted another clearance found Gavin Goodall on the left and as he charged in on goal floated the ball to Mark McManus and after an initial effort being blocked was brought down as gathered the loose ball and Referee Peacock had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel stepped up and despite a valliant effort from the Vale Keeper, Ashfield were 3-0 up. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 3. Referee had still some work to do before bringing the game to a close and Lee McGeachy was shown a 2nd yellow card for an infringement. This result brings the `field back into the `mix for the Promotion place alongside Vale of Leven and Carluke. Vale of Clyde were also on the fringes however lost at home to Annbank Utd which shows how tough this League is. The `field welcome Muirkirk to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium next Saturday and Vale of Leven are away to Thorniewood.
FT:- VALE OF LEVEN 0 ASHFIELD 3
Ashfield`s Team:-
Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Amos, Friel, McManus, Giblin, McQuilken, Hearton, Cochrane, Cairns Subs:- Stevenson, Gaynor, Goodall, Passmore and McLaughlin.
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 2 Muirkirk 1 - Saturday 23rd February 2019
As detailed on Twitter earlier, this was the first time in 26 years that the teams had lined up against each other and that was in the Scottish Junior Cup. Today`s Match was reminiscent of a Junior Cup Tie with no holds barred as both teams gave their all to secure the valuable three points on offer. The promise of good weather had diminished and the rain was prevalent during the opening exchanges which were lively to say the least. The `field made one change to their team from last week with new Loan signing Mikey McWilliams coming in for Mark McManus as the home side started off where they left off and within 5 minutes were ahead. After a couple of blocked efforts the ball broke out to Dean Leverage who from 22 yards volleyed the ball goalwards only to see the `kirk goalkeeper pull off a brilliant one handed save however the ball broke to Graeme Hearton and he guided the ball into the back of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Muirkirk 0. That was Graeme`s 9th goal of the Season as Ashfield tried to get a quick fire second with Lee Cochrane`s 20 yard drive narrowly missing the post. The visitors were determined to show that Ashfield would not get this game their own way and a lovely move down the right flank saw the `Kirk Centre put through however his low driven shot was blocked by Farquhar in the Ashfield goal. A real let off for the `field, a warning which they did not `heed` as within 3 minutes the visitors, backed by a vociferous support, were on level terms. A looping ball was played into the Ashfield box with the `field back four coming out to play the offside trap, the visitors carried on and despite an excellent initial save from Farquhar, Steedman for Muirkirk followed up to drill the ball low and hard into the far corner of the net. Ashfield 1 Muirkirk 1. The game then swung from end to end with the home side desperate to get in front before half time and just as both sets of supporters were thinking about their Half time Bovril, Michael Giblin, picked up the ball 5 yards inside the Muirkirk half and after moving forward with the ball unleashed a tremendous dipping shot from fully 35 yards which flew into the top corner of the `kirk net to the delight of the home support. The joy was there to see from the Ashfield players as they celebrated. This certainly eclipsed his 25 yarder at Vale of Leven the week before. Ashfield 2 Muirkirk 1. Whilst Ashfield were celebrating, Muirkirk tried to take a quick kick-off but were hauled back by the Referee who then sent the Muirkirk Manager to the Stand for his protests.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 MUIRKIRK 1
The game continued at the same pace as the first despite the heavy underfoot conditions. Ashfield were content to let Muirkirk come forward with the ball and began to get some success on the counter attack, a ploy they carried out throughout the second half. The visitors certainly had a `weapon in their armoury` with a long throw expert and as the half wore on this came into play more and more. Ashfield`s back four were extremely solid throughout ably backed up by Cammy Farquhar who commanded his box extremely well. Ashfield made a couple of substitutions and one of them Billy Stevenson almost sealed the game with 12 minutes to go after being played through. The normally reliable forward drilled the ball past the advancing Keeper however to the home support`s anguish narrowly went over the bar. Next up was Graeme Hearton when after a sweeping breakaway was played in however his first time effort with his left foot flew over the bar. Muirkirk certainly pushed everyone forward and the `field were delighted to hear the Full time whistle at the end. Both teams deserve credit for their efforts in difficult conditions. The `field, with Vale of Leven losing at Tannochside , moved into the 3rd spot berth albeit Carluke were in Cup action impressively defeating Kilbirnie Ladeside. It`s all to play for.
FT:- ASHFIELD 2 MUIRKIRK 1
Ashfield Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Amos. Friel (Capt), Giblin, McQuilken, Cochrane, Hearton, McWilliams and Cairns. Subs:- Stevenson, Parker, Gaynor, Lynch and McLenaghan
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 3 Lesmahagow 6 - 02/03/2019
This was always going to be a big game in the Fixture List and the game was certainly worth the wait. Despite the atrocious weather conditions both teams served up a cracker with the `gow leaving with full points after some clinical finishing . The `field kind of `shot themselves in the foot` as the game was poised at 1-2 when Alan Cairns was red carded leaving a mountain to climb especially as the visitors scored shortly after. Despite the scoreline the `field stuck at it and were rewarded by some decent goals and at 3-5 down the Lesmahagow Keeper had to look extremely lively on a couple of occasions. A disappointing ending as Ashfield`s Centre forward Graeme Hearton was given a straight red for a tackle which was barely a yellow.
The game started off at great pace and it was the home side that looked good early on however with their first real attack the gow went ahead in style. The ball was played into the Ashfield box and was partially clear bobbling up to an onrushing Thomson who drove the ball low and hard into the corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. An excellent finish. Ashfield 0 Lesmahagow 1. Ashfield were conscious that if they lost possesion of the ball that the Lanarkshire team were breaking with pace and committing players forward in attack however as the half wore on Michael Giblin & Paul McQuilken began to assert their authority in midfield. On the 22nd Minute Ashfield got a corner after some good play from Mikey McWilliams. Lee Cochrane drilled the corner to the front post where Giblin was first to react and his header slammed off the far post before falling to Graeme Hearton who knocked in his 10th goal of the Season. Ashfield 1 Lesmahagow 1. A well worked goal however the `field did not keep the game square for long which was a big disappointment. A ball was played into the edge of the box on the 26th Minute finding McStay who headed the ball into the path of Thomson who finished with aplomb leaving Cammy Farquhar with no chance. Ashfield 1 Lesmahagow 2. Worse was to come for the `field as the rain lashed down with Alan Cairns given a straight Red Card for a late challenge leaving the `field with a mountain to climb and shortly after the `field lost possesion in Midfield to the industrious McStay who floated the ball to the far post where Woodcock slammed the ball into the empty net. Ashfield 1 Lesmahagow 3.
It looked like game over however the `field fought valiantly until half time before they could regroup.
HT:- ASHFIELD 1 LESMAHAGOW 3
Unfortunately the rain had not relented however the `field set above trying to reduce the gap in the early stages of the second half and were unlucky with a driven effort by McWilliams which went over the bar. As the home side were beginning to work up a head of steam, the visitors went further ahead following a lovely move down the right which resulted in a corner. The delivery to the far post caused mayhem in the Ashfield defence and after the ball was cleared to the edge of the box, it was Weir who volleyed the ball with the aid of a slight deflection into the roof of the net. Ashfield 1 Lesmahagow 4. A real blow for Ashfield and it would have been easy to let their heads go down however the Possil Team worked tirelessly and were hauled back in the game on the hour mark by an unlikely source. Right Back Colin Leverage disposed Thomson in the middle of the park before charging at the Gow defence and after evading a couple of tackles drove the ball into the corner of the net for his first Ashfield goal. A great effort from `Coco`. Ashfield 2 Lesmahagow 4. As Ashfield streamed forward in search of a further goal, they were open to the counter attack and 6 minutes later, the gow produced an outstanding goal. A ball was played down the right with the right winger outpacing the Ashfield back four before crossing to the far post for an onrushing Weir who just got ahead of Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal lashing the ball into the roof of the net. Ashfield 2 Lesmahagow 5. This surely would put the game to bed however the home side had other ideas and three minutes later had reduced the deficit again after some pressure on the gow back four with the ball being played out to Paul McQuilken on the edge of the box and he managed to strike the ball well with the outside of his foot and into the far corner of the net for his first Ashfield goal. Ashfield 3 Lesmahagow 5. Surely there would be no way back for Ashfield with 20 minutes left however the `field almost scored a fourth courtesy of an excellent effort from McQuilken in which the Gow keeper blocked well with his legs. A couple of substitutes for both teams and this would have an impact for the visitors as Ex-Forth Striker Kris Jarvie joined the Match and with his first touch put the game to bed. The ball was played up to Thomson who headed to ball into the path of Jarvie and from fully 30 yards drove the ball into the top corner of the net for the goal of the day to leave `the `field scratching their heads. A wonderful strike . Ashfield 3 Lesmahagow 6. As the game petered out, Graeme Hearton fell foul of Referee Gary McLean and was shown his marching orders with 5 minutes to go. The game had gone by then and the subsequent suspension will not assist the home side`s drive for promotion.
FT:- ASHFIELD 3 LESMAHAGOW 6
Video of Goals from today`s encounter. Many thanks to Davie Brown:-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dktsfpjc7Go
Ashfield`s Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Passmore, Cairns, Friel (Capt). McQuilken, Giblin, Hearton, Cochrane and McWilliams. Subs:- McGlenaghan, Goodall, McLaughlin, Lynch and McManus.
McBookie West Region Division 2
Muirkirk 3 Ashfield 2 - 23/03/2019
Ashfield headed down to East Ayrshire knowing what they had to do in the next six games and that it was in their hands and with the exception of Ciaran Friel and Patrick Cullen, `Maxi` had a full team to pick from. The home side have had a very good season so far and were looking to leave where they left off against Johnstone Burgh in their last home game (6-0) so a cracking match was in prospect and that is what we got. Again, similar to the last game, both teams deserve enormous credit for their efforts and it was slightly disappointing that there were so many bookings in what was a physical game but not a dirty one.
It was the home side, backed by a strong wind, that started on the front foot with a succession of long throw-ins into the box which were well defended by the `field. Ashfield were trying to find their passing game but were being hemmed in and on the 11th minute succumbed to the opening goal. A long throw into the Ashfield half found the Kirk No 7 and after taking one touch he lashed the ball from fully 22 yards into the top corner of Cammy Farquhar`s net to the delight of the home fans. Muirkirk 1 Ashfield 0. This goal gave Ashfield a jolt and they set about trying to claw back the deficit. A lovely through ball from Michael Giblin saw Billy Stevenson break clear of his marker however the Ashfield Striker elected to shoot instead of going round the Keeper and his effort was well saved . Another chance fell to the same Ashfield player from a corner with Stevenson getting ahead of his marker only to see his header miss the far post by inches.
Muirkirk were still foraging forward at every opportunity and the `field had to deal with a number of corners however as the half wore on the Glasgow Team took control of Midfield and on the 20th minute were level. Graeme Hearton weaved around the `kirk defence however as he tried to break through was tripped with the Referee pointing to the spot. It was good to see Keigan Parker back from injury and the Ex-St Johnstone man finished with aplomb. Muirkirk 1 Ashfield 1. Although it was competitive, the number of bookings dished out was beginning to annoy both sides as the game stop-started on a regular basis and just on half time Ashfield had a number of corners to try and go in with a Half time lead however the home side had other ideas and on the 45th Minute were awarded a free-kick just inside the Ashfield half. The ball was delivered into the box and was met first by the tall Midfielder of Muirkirk, Rodgers, who glanced his header into the corner of the net to put the home side ahead at the interval. Muirkirk 2 Ashfield 1.
HT:- MUIRKIRK 2 ASHFIELD 1
It is never a good time to lose a goal just before Half time however it did not affect the `field who lay siege on Muirkirk`s goal for the first 20 minutes of the half and will be wondering how they did not score. Backed by a swirling wind, Billy Stevenson and Keigan Parker went close initially with efforts being blocked and saved by the Keeper. Next up it was Paul McQuilken`s turn as he drove the ball into a crowded penalty box only to see it diverted away. Graeme Hearton managed to get through the packed defence on the hour mark and his net bound effort was blocked by the feet of the `kirk Keeper who was having an excellent match. Parker was replaced by Lee Cochrane and the Ex-Renfrew player managed a shot within 2 minutes which was parried to safely. As in the first half the Referee continued the dish out Yellow Cards. Ashfield were beginning to get frustrated as the rain lashed down at Burnside Park and this turned to anguish with 18 minutes left on the clock. A long ball was played into the Ashfield box and was gathered by Keenan who managed to weave his way past two tackles before drilling the ball into the far corner to the delight of the home support. Muirkirk 3 Ashfield 1. A well taken goal however a disaster for Ashfield, who after this went on full offensive bringing on Player/Manager Paul Maxwell in a bid to salvage the result. Despite a couple of close calls when Billy Stevenson`s net bound effort was diverted wide of the post, the home defence stood resolute until 3 minutes to go when the `field were awarded a free-kick 22 yards out. Billy Stevenson stepped up and curled a terrific effort into the far corner of the net and it was game on. Muirkirk 3 Ashfield 2. Despite the visitors pressure they were unable to break down the home side and this was not helped when Michael Giblin was sent off for speaking out of turn to the Referee which was down to sheer frustration. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close, the home side celebrated and the Glasgow outfit knew that this was a real dent in their promotion plans however there are still 5 games to be played and what it does mean is that the `field cannot afford to drop any more points.
FT:- MUIRKIRK 3 ASHFIELD 2
Ashfield`s Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Amos, Gaynor, McManus, McQuilken, Giblin, Hearton, Stevenson and Parker. Subs:- Lynch, Cochrane, Hadden, Passmore and Maxwell.
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 6 Saltcoats Victoria 0 - 30/03/2019
The `field were desperate to `bounce back `from last week`s narrow defeat at Muirkirk where they played well but did not get the breaks. Saltcoats Vics were `dangerous` opponents and it had been a terrific Match the last time the two teams met over the festive period in December on the Ayrshire coast with the `field coming back up the road to Glasgow after a 4-2 victory where they had Cammy Farquhar to thank for a magnificent display, so the `field were under no illusions that they had to be at their best today and within the first few minutes of the Kick-Off were ahead.
Paul Maxwell starting only his 2nd game since Christmas replaced Billy Stevenson up front and made an immediate impact. It was good to see Kenny Hadden back in the line up and his long throw in the 3rd Minute found `Maxi` in the box and the Ashfield Striker guided his header into the far corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Saltcoats Vics 0. A great start and the `field were keen to build on this and despite some early pressure found the Vics defence in resolute form. As the game began to calm down Ashfield started to get their passing game together and after a move down the left in the 20th minute the ball broke to Graeme Hearton on the edge of the penalty box. The Ashfield striker drove the ball hard at goal with the Vics keeper saving however was unable to hold and as the ball squirmed from his grasp, Paul Maxwell was first to react to drive the ball into the net to put the `field 2-0 up. Ashfield 2 Saltcoats Vics 0. This was the start Ashfield had wanted and managed to dictate affairs for most of the half with the odd sporadic burst from the visitors notably from Ex-Ashfield winger Chris Moulangou. Graeme Hearton was looking lively up front and after a knock down from `Maxi`, the Ex-Rossvale man found himself through on goal however his volley went narrowly past the far post. As Referee Andrew Bryson brought first half proceedings to a close the `field knew that they still required that extra goal to be sure of the points.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 SALTCOATS VICS 0
The home faithful didn`t have long to wait for the nerves to be calmed as the boys in Black & White hoops put on an excellent second half performance which resulted in the `field going into third place on goal difference. After an initial early effort from Graeme Hearton, it was Lee Cochrane that found space in the crowded Vics penalty box in the the 49th Minute and drove a right footed shot into the net with a few mild deflections on the way to give the home side some breathing space. Ashfield 3 Saltcoats Vics 0. The visitors struggled to create much going forward and Ashfield were hungry for more goals. After a couple of substitutes, the home side increased their lead in the 71st minute following an excellent corner delivered by Keigan Parker. As the ball was whipped in Paul Maxwell outjumped the Vics defence bulleting a header into the net to complete his hat-trick. Ashfield 4 Saltcoats Vics 0. Despite a lot of further pressure it wasn`t until the 88th minute before Ashfield scored again. The ball was played over the visiting defence finding Player/Manager Maxwell who guided the ball into the path of an onrushing Jordan Lynch with the Ashfield Midfielder lashing the ball into the net to the delight of the home support and a few of Jordan`s fans in the Main Stand ! Ashfield 5 Saltcoats Vics 0. As the Referee thought about bringing the game to a close the `field managed one last chance with the ball being played into the box by Kenny Hadden finding Mark McManus and his header gave the Vics Keeper no chance to finally finish the scoring for the day. Ashfield 6 Saltcoats Vics 0. This was a confidence boosting win for Ashfield and they were more back to their `old self`with 4 games to go. It`s a trip to Forth next on the Cards which like every game in this League will be a very competitive Match.....`mon the `field !!
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 SALTCOATS VICS 0
Ashfield Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Hadden, Friel, Amos, McManus, McQuilken, Hearton, Maxwell and Cochrane. Subs:- Parker, Lynch, Passmore.
McBookie West Region Division 2
Forth Wanderers 2 Ashfield 2 - Saturday 06/04/2019
The Pitch at Kingshill Park was in remarkably good form considering three days earlier it was under inches of snow as the `field visited Forth for the first time since September 2015 where despite a 25 yard goal from Chris Moulangou for the `field, it wasn`t enough as the home side finished up 3-1 winners that day. It was the same scoreline earlier this season at Saracen Park where Ashfield won 3-1 and were at the top of the League. The `field were now lying in 3rd Place going into the Match knowing that victory was a `must`. As the rain lashed down it was the visitors that started on the front foot playing in their third strip of Yellow and Black with the home side sporting their normal Red outfits. Despite a bright start, Cammy Farquhar found himself picking the ball out of the back of the net in the 7th minute following Forth`s first foray up the `field. A tremendous low hard cross from the Forth No 7 found the home side`s left winger in between two Ashfield defenders and he drilled the ball past Farquhar to put the home side ahead. Forth Wanderers 1 Ashfield 0. A real `jolt` to the visitors who didn`t let this affect them as they laid siege on the home goal with the home keeper in excellent form. Efforts from Graeme Hearton and a shot from Billy Stevenson were well saved however a 20 yarder from Paul McQuiklen had the Keeper beaten however to the anquish of the visiting support missed the far post by inches. The `field had a number of corners however the Forth back four were defending well however on the 38th Minute, the `field eventually got their reward after a lovely cross from Colin Leverage found Mark McManus breaking away from his marker and his downward effort bulleted past the Forth keeper and into the corner of the net for his 6th goal of the Season. Forth Wanderers 1 Ashfield 1. The game ebbed and flowed after this as the home side used the flanks well however as Referee Kieran O`Reilly blew for Half time you knew that the second half would be as equally competitive.
HT:- FORTH WANDERERS 1 ASHFIELD 1
Unfortunately the weather had not improved however as the crowd were settling into their positionS for the second half, Ashfield went ahead. A through ball found Mark McManus on the edge of the box and the Ashfield Midfielder swivelled and looped a shot over the Forth Keeper and into the top corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Forth Wanderers 1 Ashfield 2. A real boost for the `field however they knew enough from the first half proceedings that another goal would be vital. The game was extremely hard fought especially in midfield and chances were now at a premium as defences became on top. Both teams made a couple of substitutions with Michael Giblin coming on for Lee Cochrane and within a few minutes had a shot on the turn which went narrowly over, The Referee on the whole had a good game however the `field will be disputing the lead up to Forth`s equaliser. With 8 minutes left on the clock the ball was played through to the Forth Centre Forward who looked well offside however Referee O`Reilly waved play on and as Cammy Farquhar advanced from his goal, the Forth Centre finished with aplomb to pull the game level. Forth Wanderers 2 Ashfield 2. Ashfield made a quick change bringing on Keigan Parker and foraged forward at ever opportunity now. The `field were awarded a free-kick 22 yards out which Michael Giblin took and was brilliantly saved by the Forth Keeper who got his fingertips to the shot tipping the ball over. From the resultant corner there ensued a `stramash` in the box with the ball breaking to Giblin again and his net bound effort was blocked by the Forth Keeper and scrambled to safety. Despite further pressure the `field could not make the breakthrough and the anquish on the players faces at full time was there to see. The `field have played worse and won this season and with results not going in our favour they must win all remaining fixtures and look for some assistance from other teams.
FT:- FORTH WANDERERS 2 ASHFIELD 2
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Amos, K Hadden, C Friel (Capt), P McQuilken, M McManus, G Hearton, L Cochrane & B Stevenson. Subs:- K Parker, M Giblin, J Lynch, G Passmore
McBookie.Com West Region Division 2
Annbank United 1 Ashfield 2 - Saturday 13/04/2019
Ashfield made the trip down to South Ayrshire knowing what they had to do today with the League beginning to sort itself out with other teams knowing how many points they needed. Compared to last Saturday, it was `tropical` conditions at New Pebble Park as the `field were forced into their all Red away kit following a clash of colours with the home team. It had been a long time since the `field played down here and have to go back to 2011 for the last Meeting. Annbank were on a `rich vein` of form with two excellent victories in their last home games (9-2 & 5-2) and they started the game confidently playing against the strong wind and within 2 minutes almost took the lead when Amos was short with a passback and Farquhar in the Ashfield goal managed to dive on the ball at second attempt with the home side appealing for a penalty. Ashfield looked lively going forward with young Dean Leverage making good progress down the left flank and a couple of cross balls almost found Maxwell and Hearton. The `field were trying to play their passing game with Giblin and McQuilken linking up well however the bumpy park coupled with the tenacious tackling of the home side found the visitors struggling to get any form of pressure on the home side and as the half wore on chances were at a premium. The home side however found a `bit of magic` with 7 minutes of the half remaining, when Cammy Ross broke clear from the halfway line with the Ashfield back four playing a high line. The Bankies defender still had a lot to do however as Cammy Farquhar advanced from his goal the defender drove the ball low and hard into the corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Annbank Utd 1 Ashfield 0. A real blow for Ashfield who set off from the restart trying to equalise before half time and despite pressure it was the home side that were hitting on the break. Just on the Half Time whistle the home side were awarded a free-kick which was collected well by the Ashfield Keeper however for some reason the Bankies No 3 Andy Orr followed through with his tackle taking the legs from Farquhar. The Referee had no hesitation in booking Orr, who unfortunately had been booked earlier and the home side were down to 10 men for the second half.
HT:- ANNBANK UTD 1 ASHFIELD 0
The half time Cup of Tea worked wonders for Ashfield as they came out a completely different team and immediately put the home side under constant pressure. Two minutes into the half and the `field got a corner on the far side which was well delivered into the front of the box by McQuilken. Ciaran Friel was first to react and he glanced a header into the six yard box where Graeme Hearton bulleted a header into the roof of the net to the delight of the small band of travelling supporters. Annbank Utd 1 Ashfield 1. Ashfield were linking up well and with Jordan Lynch coming on at half time the `field had more energy about them. Jordan himself managed to find space at the edge of the box however his effort went well over. Graeme Hearton was causing the Bankies back four some problems with his pace as Ashfield went in search of a winner. As the half wore on chances became difficult to find and the `field made a tactical switch by putting Dean Leverage to left wing and all of a sudden the cross balls were prevalent. The `field however were given a scare with 20 minutes to go when the Bankies Goalscorer Cammy Ross gathered the ball on the left flank before cutting in and curling a 22 yard shot off the post with the resultant shot being blocked. A real let-off for the `field however within a few minutes the visitors went ahead. Again Dean Leverage delivered a wicked ball into the box which found an onrushing Graeme Hearton who managed to guide the ball into the 6 yard box with Paul Maxwell touching it on its way into the corner of the net. Annbank Utd 1 Ashfield 2. The players reaction was there to see and they tried to force the game to Annbank in the remaining minutes however with the last touch of the ball the home side were awarded a free-kick which was wasted by the Bankies to the angst of the home support before Referee James Burns brought proceedings to a close. Football is a funny old game and the `field certainly played better last week without coming away with the three points however credit to the home side as this is a tricky venue to visit. We welcome Newmains United next week to Saracen Park knowing that 3 points is a must to keep the promotion challenge going.
FT:- ANNBANK UTD 1 ASHFIELD 2
Ashfield`s Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Amos, Hadden, Friel, McQuilken, Giblin, Hearton, McManus and Maxwell. Subs:- Lynch, Passmore, Cullen and Cairns
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 5 Newmains United 0 - Saturday 20/04/2019
An earlier Kick-Off today due to scheduling times with the Glasgow Tigers Speedway and in this regard we thank Newmains United for being accommodating at moving the Kick-Off to 12 Noon. The bright lunchtime sunshine greeted both teams onto the park and it was great to see a `guard of honour` for Ashfield stalwart Gordon Passmore, who retires at the end of Season, from both teams and also the Ashfield Academy Kids.
The park was in reasonable form for the last game of the Season however was extremely hard and bumpy and the pitch will welcome a `close season` also. The `field were sporting their new strips sponsored by `Allied Mobility`and started brightly almost going ahead on the 3rd Minute when a whipped in cross from Dean Leverage was headed goal wards by Billy Stevenson only to see his effort brilliantly saved by the Newmains Keeper. The home side were knocking the ball about confidently and went ahead in the 9th Minute after a long through ball from Ciaran Friel caught out the United Defence with Graeme Hearton being first to react. The Ashfield striker still had a lot to do and lofted the ball over the advancing Keeper and just under the crossbar to put the `field 1-0 up. Ashfield 1 Newmains Utd 0 . An excellent start from the home side who were playing with a high tempo. Next up was a great move down the right with Paul McQuilken playing a lovely ball to Colin Leverage and the Ashfield Full back raced fully 30 yards before delivering a cross to the front post which was met by the onrushing Hearton however on this occasion it was the Newmains Keeper that blocked his effort and the ball was scrambled to safety. The visitors were unable to build up a head of steam however were dangerous and you could see why they had scored 7 goals in their last 2 games. However it was the home side that got the all important second on the half hour mark following a short corner. The ball was played out to Paul McQuilken who evaded one tackle before delivering a curling cross right into the box where John Gaynor bulleted a header into the back of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 2 Newmains Utd 0. This was a massive goal for the `field and they almost added a third shortly after however Graeme Hearton miscued his shot wide. Referee Craven brought proceedings to a close with the home side knowing that the next goal was vital.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 NEWMAINS UNITED 0
The Ashfield support did not have to worry about an anxious second half as within a couple of minutes the game was effectively over following a corner on the far side. Again a wonderful delivery from Paul McQuilken was brillliantly headed into the corner of the net by Mark McManus who simply cannot stop scoring at the moment. That was his fourth goal in four games for the Ashfield midfielder. Ashfield 3 Newmains United 0. Ashfield made a couple of substitutions after this bringing on Gordon Passmore and Lee Cochrane however the tide was still flowing towards the Newmains goal and in the 69th Minute Billy Stevenson was played through and as he knocked the ball round the Keeper was brought down with Referee Craven having no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Billy dusted himself down and sent the Keeper the wrong way to put the `field 4-0 up. Ashfield 4 Newmains United 0. Shortly after the Newmains Keeper brought out an excellent save to deny Stevenson again however could do nothing with Ashfield`s fifth goal in the 79th minute. A cross from Alan Cairns to the back cross was met by Captain Ciaran Friel and as he headed across the goal, the ball was met by Graeme Hearton who headed into the empty net to complete the scoring. Ashfield 5 Newmains United 0. A very good performance from Ashfield and one which will give them confidence for a stern test next week at Vale of Clyde. It is still extremely tight between Vale of Leven, Vale of Clyde and Carluke Rovers with all to play for with the `field looking to secure the full three points next week.
FT:- ASHFIELD 5 NEWMAINS UNITED 0
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Amos, J Gaynor, C Friel, M McManus, P McQuilken, G Hearton, j Lynch, B Stevenson. Subs:- L Cochrane, G Passmore, A Cairns
McBookie.Com West Region Division 2
Vale of Clyde 2 Ashfield 0 - Saturday 27/04/2019
It was Ashfield`s last League game of the Season and it didn`t come any bigger than a tussle with promotion contenders Vale of Clyde who had earlier in the Season inflicted the `field`s heaviest defeat, so the North Glasgow outfit knew what they had to do today in order to keep the pressure on fellow contenders for 3rd Place in Vale of Leven, Carluke and Muirkirk. As both teams entered the Fullarton Park pitch there was a great sense of determination from both teams with Ashfield reverting to their 2nd strip of all Red.
It was the visitors that started the more assured with Paul McQuilken pulling the strings in midfield. The Ex-Pollok man was going through a rich vein of form and ensured that Ashfield had width to their play. A number of corners were well dealt with by the Vale back four with the Centre half certainly in dominant mood. A snap shot from Jordan Lynch on the edge of the box sailed over the bar before a lovely move on the right saw Billy Stevenson cross to the far post only to see McQuilken`s downward shot pushed away by the Vale Keeper. A couple of minutes later, the `field almost gifted a goal to the home side following a long through ball. Passmore and Keeper Farquhar seemed to leave the ball to each other and the Vale forward nipped in between them before skewing his effort past the post to the relief of the visiting support. The home support however did not have long to wait to raise their voices again as following a corner, the Vale No 10 Fraser got ahead of his marker at the front post and guided his header into the net to put the Vale 1-0 up. Vale of Clyde 1 Ashfield 0. A real blow to the visitors who tried to step up a gear before half time however found the Vale defence in stubborn mood and the `field found themselves restricted to long range shots. As the Referee brought proceedings to a halt, the `field knew they would have to vary their attack in the 2nd half.
HT:- VALE OF CLYDE 1 ASHFIELD 0
It was all to play for in the second half and the home side started brightly playing in a number of crosses which were scrambled to safety by Ashfield. An injury forced McQuilken off and he was replaced by Michael Giblin. The `field began to grow into the half and started to `boss` possesion with the home side happy to hit on the break. A couple of long range efforts from Ashfield were blocked by the home side before Billy Stevenson almost got on the end of a Gordon Passmore cross. Next up was Dean Leverage with the young Ashfield back utilising his pace down the left only to see his shot go past the far post. With 15 minutes to go, Ashfield thought they had equalised following a lovely move down the right. The ball was played to the far post and this time Graeme Hearton managed to get away from the well marshalled defence as he headed past the Vale Keeper. Unfortunately for Ashfield, there was a defender on the line who managed to scoop the ball to safety with the visitors appealing for a goal. The game became slightly niggly after that with the home side content to play down time and Referee Anderson produced a number of yellow cards. The home side could see that the `field were running out of time and with a minute to go foraged up the field with the Vale forward hitting a blistering shot to Cammy Farquhar`s right hand side however the Ex-Islavale Keeper pulled off a great one handed save. The ball however broke to an onrushing forward who cut inside before being brought down with the Referee having no hesitation in pointing to the spot and dismissing Mark McManus in the process. Sam Donald took the Penalty drilling his shot passed the arms of Cammy Farquhar to seal the victory for the `tin pail`. Vale of Clyde 2 Ashfield 0. As the Referee blew for full time, the home side knew they had made giant steps to possible promotion with the `field wondering if their points tally of 48 will be enough to see off Carluke, Vale of Clyde and Vale of leven with Muirkirk dropping out of the picture following defeat at Annbank. It has been some season and the `field will point to one or two games that they dropped points in if they do not make it but despite that can be very pleased with their efforts and style of play this Season under the Management Team of Paul Maxwell, Ryan Cairley, Scott Mills & Ryan Dakhill.
FT:- VALE OF CLYDE 2 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, G Passmore, D Leverage, A Amos, J Gaynor, C Friel, J Lynch, P McQuiulken, G Hearton, B Stevenson, M McManus. Subs:- P Maxwell, P Cullen, K Hadden, A Cairns & M Giblin
